Chandigarh
12 November 2024
DIVYA AZAD
The Music & Beyond conference, held in Chandigarh and hosted by IP law firm JusIP in partnership with the Indian Performing Rights Society (IPRS), provided an invaluable platform for local and independent musicians to learn about safeguarding their intellectual property. Supported by Grey Marble Infra Pvt Limited (GMI), the event was a significant success, drawing industry professionals, artists, and legal experts eager to delve into pressing issues surrounding music copyright, royalties, and creators’ rights in the digital age.
The conference began with an inspiring session led by writer and lawyer Sonia Chauhan, featuring renowned artists Shankar Sawhney and Krishna Beuraa. Sharing their personal industry journeys, they highlighted the importance of resilience and legal awareness. “The biggest hurdle for young artists today is not lack of talent, but lack of awareness about their rights,” Beuraa commented, underlining the need for artists to secure their creative futures.
IPRS National Manager, Mandar Deshpande, led an educational session on the role of Collective Management Organizations (CMOs) like IPRS in ensuring fair compensation for artists. He emphasized the importance of artists registering with organizations such as IPRS and ISAMRA for royalty collection, particularly as digital music continues to expand.
In a lively panel discussion moderated by Navjosh Singh, industry experts Rajat Chandra, Semwal, and Yuvan tackled the complexities of royalties and ownership under the Indian Copyright Act. Panelist Ramit Mehra of The Local Train emphasized the importance of collaboration and fair compensation. “Know your worth and don’t hesitate to ask for credit,” advised Gagan Oberoi, who also discussed the delicate balance involved in creating film soundtracks that satisfy both cinematic and artistic visions.
The conference culminated with an emotional jam session featuring rapper Jyoti (@rapperjyoti0172) and music producer Lucky. Their performance was a fitting close to an event dedicated to empowering artists, reinforcing the message that while legal knowledge is essential, music’s true value lies in its ability to connect and inspire.
With strong support from GMI, the Music & Beyond conference succeeded in raising awareness of copyright protection, fair compensation, and the importance of legal literacy. Attendees left empowered with tools to take charge of their creative careers, better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the evolving music landscape.
