Bruno K has won a major legal battle against the US-owned music label, Black Market Records, with the High Court ordering the label to pay him Shs 130 million in damages for copyright infringement and withholding his royalties.
The singer signed a contract with Black Market Records in 2020 but later realized it was an unfair deal and chose to terminate it.
However, the label refused to release his royalties, claimed ownership of his music, and took over his YouTube channel until today.
Bruno K sought legal recourse on the matter, and today, the court ruled in his favor, awarding him 130 million Uganda shillings and also permanently stopping Black Market Records from interfering with Bruno K's music.
The singer is overjoyed by the victory and thanked Eddy Kenzo and the federation for their support. He also rallied all artists with queries to reach out to Kenzo for help.
"It's a good day for me; however, I want to thank Eddy Kenzo, Mummy Esther, and the federation for the support they offered, including hiring my legal team. I am also grateful to the lawyers for the tremendous work," he explained in an interview with NTV's The Beat.
The singer, who had taken a break from music for over a year, now says he is hitting the studio again and has been empowered by the judgment.
The court has given the label thirty days to make payment to Bruno K, and a 14% annual interest will be applied from the day of judgment.
Ferdinand Tuhaise, who is the legal counsel to Bruno K, welcomed the judgment and warned that many people will be held accountable for copyright infringement.
"High Court has awarded @bruno_KUg UGX 130m for copyright infringement on his songs by Black Market Records. Another day to hold those who infringe copyright accountable. Thanks to @BwoweIvan, who handled the case jointly. Now Bruno can benefit from his music without disruption," he wrote on his X account.