Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | Popular Ugandan music artist Yasin Mukasa, known by his stage name Lil Pazo, is facing allegations from the family of the late Kato Lubwama regarding his remake of the song “Kilabe Ebiiso.”
The original version of “Kilabe Ebiiso” was composed by the late Kato Lubwama and is copyrighted under his name.
Lil Pazo has recreated the song, retitling it “Irena” as a serenade to the talented singer Irene Ntale. In his version, Lil Pazo expresses his deep feelings of love and affection for Ntale.
Through their lawyers, Maldes Advocates, Kato Lubwama’s family has accused Lil Pazo of copyright infringement, claiming that he has violated the original work’s intellectual property rights.
“Our clients have since learned of your infringement against the aforesaid copyright through your recently released song titled ‘IRENA WEeee….,” which is commonplace on the different media platforms and air waves both in and outside Uganda.
The lyrics, rhythm, and beat used in your song are a direct replica of the late Paul Kato Lubwama’s original composition, “Kilabe Ebiiso,” and they do not only amount to plagiarism but are actionable at law,” a letter sent to Lil Pazo by Maldes Advocates on behalf of Kato Lubwama’s family reads in part.
The family has instructed Lil Pazo to immediately remove the infringing song from all media platforms, issue a formal apology for the infringement, and publicize the apology on all platforms where the infringing song has been played.
Additionally, the “Emotoka” hitmaker has been instructed to pay Shs 320 million in damages and costs.
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“Pay damages to our client of Ugx.300,000,000 (Uganda Shillings Three Hundred million),” the notice reads.
Lil Pazo’s plans to marry Irene Ntale overshadowed by copyright controversy
In recent weeks, the “Enkudi” singer Lil Pazo has openly shared his desire to marry Irene Ntale, the former Swangz Avenue songstress, if given the opportunity.
However, the recent allegations of piracy concerning Kato Lubwama’s song have shifted Lil Pazo’s focus from his romantic aspirations to addressing the legal issues at hand.
Kato Lubwama, who was also a former Member of Parliament for Rubaga South, passed away last year in June at Stana Medical Centre in Bunamwaya. He reportedly succumbed to complications related to a longstanding heart condition.
Lubwama had a diverse career before his death, encompassing roles as a writer, radio presenter, comedian, and musician. He passed away at the age of 52.
