An Accra High Court, on Thursday, February 15, ruled to dismiss a copyright case initiated by Mantse Aryeequaye, the founder of the Chalewote Street Art Festival. The case involved allegations against Hammer and Obrafour of The Last Two Music Group regarding ownership claims over the renowned ‘Killer Cut’ phrase featured in the popular ‘Oye Ohene’ song.
Mantse Aryeequaye had filed a writ against Hammer and Obrafour in January this year, accusing them of asserting ownership of the ‘Killer Cut’ phrase without proper authorization. However, following the court’s proceedings on February 15, the case was dismissed, and Obrafour and Hammer were awarded GH₵10,000.
The court cited “inconsistencies and breach of court rules” in Mantse’s writ as grounds for its decision to dismiss the case.
The ‘Killer Cut’ controversy dates back to the use of the phrase in Obrafour’s 2003 hit song ‘Oye Ohene.’ The dispute resurfaced when American rapper Drake sampled the phrase in his song ‘Honestly Nevermind’ without obtaining permission.
In response, Obrafour took legal action against Drake in a New York court, seeking $10 million in damages for the unauthorized use of the ‘Killer Cut’ phrase. Obrafour asserted that Drake had profited significantly from the sample without his consent.
Subsequently, Mantse Aryeequaye entered the fray, claiming ownership of the ‘Killer Cut’ phrase and contesting Obrafour and Hammer’s rights over it. This led to Mantse’s lawsuit against Hammer and Obrafour upon discovering that they had registered the song, including the phrase, under their names.
The court’s ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the ‘Killer Cut’ phrase, highlighting the complexities and disputes inherent in copyright ownership within the music industry.
