In a high-profile legal twist, legendary Ghanaian gospel group Alabaster Box has filed a GHS 15 million lawsuit against award-winning rapper Medikal, accusing him of copyright infringement over his latest single, “Welcome to Africa.”
According to the writ filed at the High Court of Justice, the gospel ensemble claims Medikal unlawfully sampled the opening bars of their celebrated hit “Akwaaba”—a track they say is fully copyrighted under their name in both Ghana and the United Kingdom. The alleged sample appears in the first ten seconds of the rap song, which has been gaining traction on digital platforms.
What’s in the Lawsuit?
Alabaster Box states that “Welcome to Africa” features a derivative version of their original composition, one that was used without request or authorization. The group argues that such usage not only infringes on their intellectual property but also associates their brand with vulgar and explicit content found in the song.
In the suit, they describe Medikal’s track as containing “expressive profanity, vulgarity, and unprintable words,” which they say stands in direct contrast to the values they’ve upheld over their 30-year career. This, they believe, has harmed their reputation, especially among their Christian and family-oriented audience.
Alabaster Box Demands:
The gospel group is seeking:
- GHS 10 million in damages for the copyright infringement
- GHS 5 million in exemplary damages for what they say is a deliberate and damaging misuse of their work
- A full accounting and report of all revenue generated from the song on streaming platforms
- An immediate takedown order for the song on YouTube, Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify, Apple Music, and other distribution platforms
Alabaster Box also wants a formal public apology and acknowledgment that their song was used without permission.
Medikal’s Reaction?
Though Medikal has reportedly removed or altered the first ten seconds of the track on YouTube, the original version remains accessible on several streaming platforms. Alabaster Box considers this move both inadequate and disrespectful, insisting that the partial edit—done without any attempt at dialogue—reflects an admission of guilt and a lack of professionalism.
Who Is Alabaster Box?
Known for their a cappella harmonies and inspirational lyrics, Alabaster Box has been a pillar in Ghana’s gospel music scene since the early 90s. Their beloved anthem, “Akwaaba,” earned them not just national love but international recognition, including the rare honor of performing for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey.
The group has built its brand on musical excellence, spiritual values, and originality—principles they believe have now been undermined by the alleged infringement