The Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) has responded to concerns over royalty payments after Tamale-based musician Fancy Gadam expressed disappointment at receiving GH¢123 in royalties despite years of active music production.
In a statement dated 16 December 2025, signed by Gordon Mensah, Head of Digital Services and Distribution, GHAMRO explained the structure of royalty payments and why the amount may appear low.
Limited Scope of GHAMRO Royalties
GHAMRO clarified that it primarily handles publishing royalties, which represent only 15–20% of all revenue generated from digital streams. The remaining 80–85%, known as master or sound recording royalties, are paid directly to the owner of the recordings — typically through the artist’s distributor or record label.
“If Fancy Gadam owns the sound recordings he invested time, resources, and sleepless nights to create, those earnings are paid to him by his distributor, not by GHAMRO,” the statement read.
Systemic Challenges Impacting Payments
GHAMRO highlighted challenges in the local industry that affect royalty distribution, including:
- Non-payment or incomplete reporting by broadcasters: Over 90% of stations either fail to pay royalties or do not submit accurate usage data.
- Data inconsistencies from digital streaming platforms: Inaccurate reporting reduces the pool of publishing royalties available for distribution.
Call for Direct Engagement
The organization urged artists to engage directly with GHAMRO’s distribution department for detailed breakdowns of their royalty statements. GHAMRO emphasized that unlicensed or unreported usage cannot legally generate payments.
“Royalties are dependent on proper licensing, accurate program documentation, and up-to-date registration of musical works,” GHAMRO noted.
The clarification seeks to promote transparency, fairness, and understanding of how royalties flow within Ghana’s music industry.
See the statement below:
By Miss Melody
