The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) has cleared Mugiithi singer Samidoh Muchoki after his song ‘Wendo wa Ihera’ (Toxic Love) song was taken down by YouTube for copyright claims.
In a statement issued by KECOBO, the board stated that there is no similarity between Samidoh’s song and SK Ruri’s song ‘Thutha wa Maundu’ who had raised the copyright claim with KECOBO.
KECOBO rules in favour of Samidoh
“The Compliance department wrote to Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC) to do an analysis on both the songs in regard to whether the songs are similar,” read the statement in part.
“From the PPMC analysis, it was found that your song ‘Thutha wa Maundu’ and the song Toxic Love by Mr. Samuel Muchoki are not similar and there is no copyright infringement,” read another part of the statement.
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SK had raised the claim on December 24, 2024, against Samidoh, whose real name is Samuel Muchoki, stating that his new song had infringed on his song.
This led to the pulling down of the song that had amassed 4.7 million views as at the time it went down.
According to Ruri, the mugiithi singer replicated his melody across all four verses and interludes raising concerns over intellectual property rights.
Ruri advice to artists on copyright
“Artistes can borrow inspiration, but consent and credit are non-negotiable,” stated Ruri.
Ruri, a gospel singer, stated that he contacted Samidoh to express his grievances. He added that the singer brushed him off, dismissing his concerns as malicious, petty, and clout-chasing stunts.
Ruri who was unrelenting on the issue took it to KECOBO and raised the issue with YouTube as well which led to the pulling down of the song in three weeks.
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The gospel singer advised musicians to protect their works before releasing them.
“Register every product before release. It’s affordable and safeguards your rights. Intellectual property theft undermines creativity and fairness in our industry,” he stated.
Samidoh is known for his unique blend of traditional music with contemporary themes and music styles.
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