Singapore’s karaoke scene just got a very public (and expensive) reminder about copyright law. Slim Entertainment, owner of the Catwalk lounge, was fined S$20,000 (US$16,000) for playing Chinese pop songs – specifically tracks by Jay Chou and JJ Lin – without securing the necessary licenses. This isn’t just about a karaoke bar cutting corners; it’s a fascinating case study in how aggressively rights holders are protecting their intellectual property, and the lengths they’ll go to in doing so.
- The Composers and Authors Society of Singapore (COMPASS) took the unusual step of a private prosecution.
- Slim Entertainment repeatedly ignored warnings from COMPASS and failed to appear in court for both conviction and sentencing.
- The case highlights the financial risks for businesses operating without proper music licensing.
What’s particularly striking here is COMPASS’s method. When Slim Entertainment refused to engage, licensing executives *booked a room at Catwalk and recorded evidence* of the copyright infringement. That’s dedication – and a savvy PR move. It paints Slim Entertainment as not just negligent, but actively dismissive of the rights of artists. This isn’t a passive enforcement of copyright; it’s a demonstration of power.
The fact that the defendant didn’t show up for either the conviction or sentencing speaks volumes. It suggests a calculated decision to avoid confrontation, perhaps hoping the issue would simply disappear. Judge Shaifuddin Saruwan clearly wasn’t buying it, stating the company showed “a blatant disregard for the law.” COMPASS’s solicitor echoed this sentiment, arguing that commercial entities shouldn’t be “let off easily.” This isn’t just about the money; it’s about setting a precedent.
This case is a warning shot across the bow for any establishment relying on unlicensed music. COMPASS, which manages rights for around 19.5 million musical works, is clearly prepared to actively pursue infringers. And with a separate prosecution still ongoing against Slim Entertainment’s director, Seah Ghim Siong, this story is far from over. Expect to see more proactive enforcement from licensing bodies, particularly as streaming revenue continues to reshape the music industry and artists seek to maximize their income streams. The message is clear: pay up, or face the music – legally speaking.
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