Artists Or Organizers: Who's Really Responsible For Live Performance Royalties?

Indonesia's copyright framework lacks clarity on the issue of live concert royalties. Is the performer, the event organiser or the venue responsible? A recent decision by the commercial court ruled that the performer had violated copyright law by performing a song without a proper license. Should the Supreme Court uphold this decision, it could answer some fundamental questions, with far-reaching consequences for all stakeholders involved in the music industry.

For years, songwriters have voiced concerns over inadequate compensation for the use of their works, particularly in live performances. In practice, royalties for live performance are collected and distributed by collective management organisations (CMOs), but disputes often arise over whether these payments are sufficient or correctly allocated. Without clearer legislation, these disputes will only increase.