Nigerian music star D’banj has revealed that American-Latin singer Marc Anthony sampled his 2012 hit “Oliver Twist” without permission, sparking a copyright controversy.
The Afrobeats pioneer shared his mixed reactions during a recent interview, explaining he discovered the unauthorized use last year when Anthony released the song as the lead single and title track of his album.
“I heard that song and something told me, at Marc Anthony’s level, he must have cleared this record because it was simply a Latin translation of ‘Oliver Twist’,” D’banj said. “But no, I heard it the same way you heard it.”
While expressing admiration for Anthony’s work, D’banj confirmed no clearance was obtained for the sample. “First I was happy – what better way to celebrate my 20 years in music? Anybody who can date JLo, let me give him that,” he joked before turning serious.
The “Koko Master” highlighted a recurring issue: “These situations happen to us Africans a lot. International stars take what they want, make millions, while the original artist back home knows nothing.”
D’banj confirmed his legal team is handling the matter, stating: “The record’s been out for a year, they’ve made money from it. My legal people are on it now.” He maintained a philosophical outlook, adding: “God works in mysterious ways. I don hammer (I’ve succeeded).”
