Copyright complaints

Report something only if it uses work you own, or that you're authorised to act for, without permission. That could be a song, a beat or sample, a video, a cover, a picture or words. If you simply don't like a song or an artist, this isn't the right process.

Email rampelwahulisani@gmail.com with the subject “Copyright complaint”, and include:

1. Your full name, and the person or company you act for, if it isn't you.
2. How to reach you: email, and a phone number if you're happy to share one.
3. The work you own, with a link to where it's published or a description good enough to identify it.
4. Exactly what on Makwete uses it: the link to the song, video or artist page, and what part, for example “the beat from 0:30” or “the cover picture”.
5. Any proof you have that you own it or may act for the owner.
6. This statement: “I believe in good faith that this use isn't authorised by the rights owner, their agent or the law. The information in this complaint is accurate, and I own the rights or am authorised to act for the owner.”
7. Your name typed at the end as your signature.

We can't act on a complaint that's missing these details, so we may ask you for more.

1. We confirm we've received your complaint, usually within 5 working days.
2. If it's complete and appears valid, we remove the work from Makwete. Removing it deletes the file, so nobody can play it while we look into it.
3. We tell the artist who uploaded it what was reported and by whom, so they can respond. We share your name and complaint with them, but not your phone number.
4. We let you know the outcome.

If you believe the report is a mistake, for example because you own the work, have a licence, or have permission, reply to our email within 14 days with:

• Your name and the work that was reported.
• Why you have the right to share it, with any proof, such as a licence or written permission.
• This statement: “I believe in good faith that this work was removed by mistake, and the information I've given is accurate.”

We review both sides. If your response holds up, and the complainant doesn't show they've taken legal action, we'll tell you that you may upload the work again. It goes through review like any upload. Otherwise it stays off Makwete.

• We close the accounts of artists who repeatedly upload work they don't have rights to.
• Don't send false or bad-faith complaints. They harm artists, and we may ignore future complaints from the same sender.

This page explains how Makwete handles complaints. It doesn't replace the law where you live. If you're unsure about your rights, speak to a legal adviser.