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Cape Town – MTN has announced a content agreement with Sony Music during a time when the mobile network has squared off with songwriters over royalty payments.
“The deal gives MTN customers unprecedented access to caller ring back tones from Sony Music’s illustrious catalogue of both local and international artists including but not limited to, SA artists, Zonke Dikana, AKA, Kurt Darren and Kaylow and popular gospel ensemble, Joyous Celebration,” MTN said in a statement.
The deal comes amid a battle with the Composers, Authors and Publishers Association (Capasso) which has this month accused MTN of selling music illegally because of a failure to pay songwriters their royalties.
READ: MTN ordered to take down its music
MTN said that in its deal with Sony, it would not be directly responsible for royalty payments.
“We have both agreed that Sony will administer all royalties payable to their artists directly as well as those due to the relevant collecting societies in terms of this deal. Sony, as a content provider, has vast experience in this field and is best placed to embark on this important exercise,” said Larry Annetts, Sales and Marketing executive for MTN South Africa.
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