Legal practitioner, Regina Apaloo, has explained that individuals can take legal action if a ‘diss song’ is recorded against them, provided the song contains defamatory statements that damage their reputation.
Speaking in an interview with GhanaWeb’s Isaac Dadzie, the lawyer said that ‘diss songs’ may be considered a form of defamation if certain legal conditions are met.
According to her, if the song includes false statements that harm someone’s image or reputation in the eyes of the public, the affected person has the right to sue.
“You can sue someone if they record a diss song against you. If you believe the elements of defamation can be proven against the person,” she said.
Regina Apaloo was asked to comment in the context of the rap feud between American artistes Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
In the back-and-forth between the two, Kendrick accused Drake of misconduct, including allegations of being a pedophile.
Commenting on that example, Apaloo explained that if such accusations are proven to be false and harmful, legal action can be taken.
She further clarified that suing for defamation goes beyond just being offended or hurt by words in a song.
The person suing must prove in court that the statements caused damage to their reputation and affected how others in society see them.
“You can file a suit against a person for defamation, but even at that, you have to prove that the words used against you have dented your reputation in the minds of people in society,” she added.
GhanaWeb Special: The gold market that fuels galamsey
How social engineering hacks your mind and your bank account
AK/EB
