‘Defe-Defe’ controversy: ‘Let them go’ - Ohemaa Mercy pleads with Kwame Mickey

Popular Ghanaian gospel artiste Ohemaa Mercy has entered the controversy surrounding the hit song 'Defe Defe,' which is currently embroiled in a copyright infringement dispute.

In an interview on Hitz FM on July 1, 2024, she appealed to producer Kwame Mickey to forgive the music group Team Eternity for using his intellectual property without his consent.

According to her, the song in question, 'Defe Defe,' has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for many and should not be marred by the issue.

Speaking on her relationship with the parties involved, Ohemaa Mercy stated that her relationship with Team Eternity was 'very tight,' adding, "I am very close to Team Eternity, they are my royals."

She, however, said that she does not have a close relationship with Kwame Mickey, but she pleaded with him to let the matter go.

"Anywhere the tune 'Defe Defe' is played, people can easily recognize it. That song has been a source of inspiration to many people and has gone international. So, he should forgive them and let the matter go," she said.

Background:

Kwame Mickey, the executive producer for Hallelujah Voices, claims that Team Eternity Ghana has unlawfully used the 'Defe Defe' phrase in their new song.

While some argue that the expression 'Defe Defe' cannot be owned by Hallelujah Voices, others point out lyrical similarities between the two songs.

Hallelujah Voices' version includes the line "Manhyia Nyame a anka ɔbonsam ayɛ me defe defe," while Team Eternity's rendition goes "Manhyia Nyame a anka y’ayɛ me defe defe."

The dispute has sparked conversations about copyright laws and the importance of artistes obtaining permission before incorporating elements of others' work into their own creations.

ID/BB