Music rights consultant releases children’s book on copyright education

Titled What is Copyright? Our Song, the publication is designed for primary school learners, music students, young adults and individuals with limited knowledge of intellectual property and the music industry. According to Mzalazala, the book uses storytelling and illustrated characters to explain key concepts related to copyright and creative rights.

The book has been published independently through SM Communications and is ready for printing and distribution.

Mzalazala said the project was developed in response to what he sees as a gap in music rights education, where many creators only learn about copyright and ownership after entering the creative industries.

“This book is more than just a publication; it is a movement,” Mzalazala said. “We cannot continue to wait until artists are adults before teaching them about their rights.”

“The future belongs to our children, and it is time for them to understand the value of creativity and ownership from an early age. In fact, it is time for our children to teach us and help protect the creative industries for generations to come.”

The publication encourages readers to engage with the story through interactive elements and role-playing activities. The animated characters featured in the book were inspired by Mzalazala’s children and their friends.

What is Copyright? Our Song is the first title in a planned educational series focusing on various aspects of the creative industries. Future publications are expected to cover topics including music publishing, artist management, royalties, intellectual property rights, creative entrepreneurship and the music business.

According to Mzalazala, the long-term goal is to make the books available in schools, libraries, arts institutions and educational programmes across Africa and other regions.

The initiative also seeks to address broader concerns about intellectual property awareness among young creators. Copyright education has increasingly become a topic of discussion within the creative sector as artists navigate issues relating to ownership, royalties and the use of creative works in digital environments.

Mzalazala is the founder of SM Communications and has worked as a music rights and business consultant, educator and author. Through his work, he has focused on raising awareness about copyright, publishing, royalties and intellectual property within the creative industries.

He has also facilitated educational sessions at various institutions, including schools and universities, and is the author of Music Rights Book Volumes 1 and 2.

Contributors: Hlomisa Nqayana, Mbongeni Yaka, Sisi Nkabinde, Bakang Mokgaotsi and Shaked Khuzwayo