In today’s fast-paced music and entertainment industry, it is no longer enough to just fill a venue with great sound and an exciting line-up. Venue owners and event organisers carry a responsibility that goes beyond putting on a show, they are custodians of music rights and play a key role in ensuring that artists and performers are fairly compensated for their craft.

This is where the South African Music Performance Rights Association (SAMPRA) comes in. As the body responsible for collecting and distributing Needletime Rights royalties, SAMPRA ensures that whenever recorded music is played publicly in nightclubs, restaurants, taverns, lounges, or major events, the performers and record companies behind that music benefit.

Affiliating with SAMPRA is not just about ticking a compliance box. It protects venues and organisers from legal risks, while also showing support for the creative economy by making sure artists, DJs, and producers are rewarded for their work. It also builds trust with both artists and audiences, positioning venues as responsible players who respect intellectual property. Most importantly, it enhances professionalism and credibility, making businesses more attractive to sponsors, partners, and artists who prefer to work with compliant establishments.

As the entertainment scene continues to grow, especially in the City of uMhlathuze, KwaZulu-Natal, it is vital for venue owners and event organisers to lead by example. By affiliating with SAMPRA, they safeguard their businesses and contribute to a fair and sustainable music industry. Tomorrow, Vibe Online proudly hosts SAMPRA’s Music User Information Session at Seagull Lodge. This important engagement will unpack everything venue owners, DJs, and event organisers need to know about music rights and compliance. Together, we can build an industry where creativity and business thrive side by side.