GUEST COMMENTRY: BY FRED FERGUSON
NASSAU, Bahamas – Dec. 29, 2022 – Renowned Bahamian entertainer Fred Ferguson made a profound and interesting observation in a post on Facebook that, although very brief, we thought we would share with readers of BAHAMAS CHRONICLE as a Guest Commentary because we strongly believe that the question he raises deserves a serious answer from the powers-that-be.
Here’s what Fred posted:
“I overheard The Hon. Minister for Youth, Sports & Culture stating that the rights for Junkanoo are owned by his said Ministry.
I know that the JCNP also has some form of ownership or control over the festival.
Whomever is the rightful owner …. I only wanna know who is responsible in ensuring that royalties are paid for the music played on Bay Street.
I’ve been told that wherever music is played ‘for gain’, (money paid), they have to be licensed by the Performing Rights Society (PRS).
As far as I’m aware, persons pay for seats in Rawson Square … and music is played. I’ve never seen any money on my account for the use of any songs I’ve written from the Ministry of the JCNP.
Is Junkanoo licensed???
Am I wrong for asking this question???”
