Alliance Center for
Intellectual Property Rights
RECOGNIZING LYRICISTS: THE UNTOLD STORY OF FM RADIO
October 15, 2024
*Mr. Sidlingappa M Huded
In a recent event, V. Nagendra Prasad, a lyricist, composer, and director who predominantly works in Kannada cinema and has written over 3,000 songs, shared his experience of not being acknowledged by a few FM stations for his songs. While speaking at an event attended by actors, producers, directors, and other members of the film fraternity, he mentioned that many FM stations have failed to mention his name as a lyricist before playing songs written by him. He further noted that many FM stations do not mention the names of lyricists and music composers, even though they regularly acknowledge the names of actors and singers, who are already pictured in listener’s memory. In his address, he also highlighted that if FM stations continue to neglect mentioning the names of lyricists and music composers, they could be violating the legal provisions outlined in the Indian Copyright Act. It is true that the lyricists, the creators of stories, emotions, and messages touching the hearts of listeners, are as vital in the production of music. Yet, when it comes to public performances and broadcasts, such as those on FM radio stations, their contributions are rarely acknowledged. Playing songs on FM radio by introducing the lyricists by name is not a matter of courtesy but an important step towards recognition for these creators.
THE ROLE OF FM RADIO IN SHAPING PUBLIC PERCEPTION:
FM radio has ruled for decades in the world of music, determines public taste and is the conduit for artists to reach millions of ears. The songs played on the radio become the life soundtrack of the people, and still, everything done by the lyricist just gets invisible. Mistakes are unintentional, and hence it has become part of routine for the radio presenter to announce, at least, the name of the singer and sometimes also that of the composer, but lyricists rarely get such credit. An act of omission that has gone on for so long that undervaluation of their work has been forged into such a culture that their creative effort can be taken for granted.
WHY ACKNOWLEDGMENT MATTERS:
Basically, acknowledgment is a kind of recognition that validates the hard work and creativity of the lyricist — here's why it matters:
Cultural Recognition: Lyricists narrate cultures through words. Most of the time, words mirror societal issues, emotions, and experiences. Such acknowledgments ensure that their role in shaping the cultural narrative is not denied.
Professional Respect: If the name of a lyricist were mentioned before every song gets played, then his status would surely go up within the music fraternity. This confirms that his contribution forms part of the final product, and such contributions should be accorded similar respect and acknowledgement given to singers and composers.
Economic Impact: Recognition may even have some form of economic consequence. Public acknowledgement would mean a wider reach for lyricists, which may consequently translate into more collaboration opportunities and commission projects.
Moral Rights: Lyricists have moral rights (right of paternity) according to the Indian Copyright Act, wherein, there has to be credit given to them for their contribution. FM radio stations are also public broadcasters and, therefore, should be duty-bound to fulfil their obligation towards the protection of the creation's moral rights of others.
THE LEGAL AND ETHICAL IMPERATIVE
The amendment of 2012 in the Indian Copyright Act was the most vital stride in ensuring the rights of creators, including lyricists. It brought into being something known as inalienable rights to royalties for lyricists and composers, among others, even after assigning their copyrights. In practice, however, moral rights, relating to the right to be credited, are often overlooked.
As major players in the broadcasting arena, FM radio stations have an ethical and legal obligation to respect moral rights of songwriters in their capacity as lyricists. Radio stations accord them respect by announcing their names and the title of their song before each play. In so doing, radio stations comply with the letter and the spirit behind the law and join in efforts to forge a more equitable and just industry.
Implementation Challenges
There are certain hindrances to its execution on a mass scale, although it shall prove to be quite beneficial and is supported legally:
Standardization: Radio stations will have to find a standardized way to ensure that the names of lyricists also come up. This may require them to be in contact with music labels and/or rights societies with the help of dealing with the relevant information.
Time Constraints: Most FM radio programs are extremely time-bound, allowing only small slots for talking between songs. Taking the name of a lyricist requires only a few seconds and hence can be accommodated without leading to much disruption in the flow of the program.
Industry Resistance: There could be some resistance from quarters of the industry that have traditionally focused attention on the more visible performers. But changing industry norms to include lyricist acknowledgements is an important step toward fairness.
FM radio stations can be able to turn public views and practice within the industry by practically giving attention to the identification of lyricists before playing the songs. They can help lead the way to recognizing all creators involved in making music. This simple act of recognition will change the lives and careers of lyricists with the rightful acknowledgment and respect that they have so long deserved.
MOVING TOWARD A MORE INCLUSIVE MUSIC INDUSTRY
In the creatively driven music industry, all contributors deserve due credit for their efforts and work. Some FM stations are already providing credit to lyricists and musicians, but all FM radio stations should follow suit. Crediting lyricists is not just an acknowledgment; it is a step toward inclusivity within the music industry. As listeners, we often celebrate the emotional depth and storytelling of our favourite songs, but it's time we also respect the writers behind the heartfelt lyrics. FM radio stations have the potential to lead this cultural shift, raising lyrical awareness and ensuring that lyricists receive the recognition they deserve, both from the public and within the industry.
CONCLUSION
The music industry thrives on collaboration, where every contributor—from singers and composers to lyricists—plays a vital role. Acknowledging lyricists on FM radio is not just a legal obligation but a moral one. By recognizing their contributions, FM stations can foster a more inclusive and equitable industry that values every creative voice. It is time for FM radio to amplify not just the music but the stories and emotions behind the lyrics, ensuring that the creators of these timeless words are never forgotten.
REFERENCES:
The Copyright Act, 1957 (India). Available at: https://copyright.gov.in/documents/copyrightrules1957.pdf (Accessed September 9, 2024).
Authors:
* Mr. Sidlingappa M Huded
Assistant Librarian, National Law School of India University, Bengaluru
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of the Alliance Centre for Intellectual Property Rights(ACIPR) and the Centre does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.