A Pass seeks to clear ‘Shilling’ in Congolese producer dispute

What the report says

Ugandan singer A Pass says he is trying to resolve a copyright complaint over his song “Shilling,” which he says is facing a removal request on YouTube. According to the singer’s account in a social media live session with fellow musician King Saha, the dispute centers on a Congolese producer who alleges that A Pass used his instrumental beat without permission.

A Pass denied the accusation and said he has been working to identify the person behind the claim. He said he received an email carrying the producer’s name and then contacted a Congolese friend to help verify whether the complainant was known to him. He said he shared evidence to support his position and also listened to the song that was said to have been copied.

The singer said he found no clear resemblance between the two works and insisted that his team did not copy another producer’s beat. Sqoop Uganda reported that some details remain unclear, including the identity of the complainant and whether “Shilling” has actually been taken down or is still available on YouTube.

The dispute highlights the kinds of cross-border copyright challenges that can affect musicians in the digital era, especially when claims involve online platforms and foreign-based rights holders. However, the report does not confirm any legal ruling or final outcome in the matter.