Ghanaian rapper, Samuel Adu Frimpong, widely known by his stage name Medikal, is at the center of a copyright dispute after being accused by renowned music group Alabaster Box of unauthorized sampling.
The group alleges that Medikal incorporated elements of their song, “Akwaaba,” into his latest single “Welcome to Africa” without permission.
A writ of summons, issued on April 8, 2025, and signed by legal representatives Sustineri Attorneys, asserts that the first 10 seconds of “Welcome to Africa” contain material that constitutes Alabaster Box’s intellectual property.
As part of their demands, Alabaster Box is calling for the immediate removal of the song from all streaming and distribution platforms.
Additionally, the group is requesting a full financial disclosure, detailing all income earned from the song’s distribution, promotion, marketing, and any performances where it was featured.
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“In light of the circumstances, we hold our client’s firm instructions to demand the following forthwith, which we hereby do,” the writ declared. “The withdrawal of the infringing song from distribution and circulation on all traditional and digital platforms; the cessation of any public performance, direct marketing, and/or sale of the infringing song; the termination of all existing agreements related to the production, promotion, distribution, and sale of the song; the submission of copies of such contracts; and confirmation of notification of their termination to us.”
The writ further outlines the group’s demand for transparency regarding any parties with whom the infringing song has been shared.
“We further demand the provision of a detailed account of all revenue accrued through the song’s use and exploitation,” the document continued. “Additionally, specify in writing the identities of all individuals or entities in possession of the infringing material and outline steps being taken to retrieve such copies.”
Should Medikal fail to comply, Alabaster Box has warned of swift legal action and potential consequences.
“In the event of refusal or disregard of our clients’ demands,” the writ cautioned, “be advised that we are instructed to pursue legal redress. This includes but is not limited to: seeking an injunction to halt all further distribution, marketing, and performance of the infringing song; requesting the destruction and deletion of all existing copies; and filing claims for damages resulting from the infringement.”
The group is also seeking exemplary damages for what they describe as a deliberate violation of their copyright, along with full reimbursement of legal costs incurred in pursuing the case.
