In a dramatic turn of events, the long-standing legal battle between Derick “RAH” Peters and Trinidadian soca superstar Machel Montano, along with Lashley “Motto” Winter, has finally come to a close. The suit, which was filed by Peters against the two renowned artists for alleged copyright infringement, was settled just moments before the commencement of the highly anticipated trial on March 4, 2024.
The dispute, stemming from a complex web of intellectual property claims, had gripped the attention of music enthusiasts and legal observers alike since its inception. Peters, a prominent figure in the Caribbean music industry, accused Montano and Winter of unlawfully using his intellectual property without proper authorization, sparking a contentious legal saga that spanned several years.
Despite numerous attempts at mediation and negotiations, a resolution had remained elusive, leading both parties to the brink of a courtroom showdown. However, in a surprise development, representatives for Peters, Montano, and Winter announced a last-minute agreement, bringing an end to the protracted litigation.
The terms of the settlement, while undisclosed to the public, are believed to encompass financial compensation and potential future collaborations between the parties involved. This unexpected turn of events has not only spared all parties the uncertainty and expense of a lengthy trial but has also paved the way for potential reconciliation within the Caribbean music community.
For readers seeking a refresher on the origins and details of the case, the initial report by Dominica News Online (DNO) on January 25, 2021, provides comprehensive coverage and background information. The article, sheds light on the intricacies of the legal dispute and the underlying allegations put forth by Derick “RAH” Peters.
With the legal battle now behind them, stakeholders in the Caribbean music industry are hopeful that this settlement will serve as a catalyst for greater cooperation and respect for intellectual property rights moving forward.
And, I will drink a nice shot of “Must Cover Rum” from the shop in Stock Farm on that one. Well done my partner Rah. Who jah bless, no man curse for real!
Happy this is settled, and wish Caribbean music/ music creators move on to higher heights, however I am puzzled having seen the Credits on YouTube.
“Jan 14, 2019 #Julianspromos The king of soca , Machel Montano teams up the riddim master, Motto to fabricate a masterpiece. Its called ISSA VIBE and it definitely brings the vibe! Its bacchanal & more bacchanal.
Produced by Lashley “Motto” Winter
Composers/Writers Lashley “Motto” Winter, Machel Montano & Cornell Phillip, Derick “Rah” Peters
Machel Montano recorded by Kasey Phillips & Franklyn Grant at Rawlston Recording Studio, Brooklyn, NY, USA & David “Kingston” Sheppard Of Sheppard Pro Studios, Port of Spain, Trinidad
Motto recorded at TeamFoxx Music Studio, Brooklyn, NY, USA
Additional Arrangement by Precision Productions and Sheppard Pro
Mixed & Mastered by Keron “Scratchmaster” Hector
WCK accordian sample played by Cornell Phillip. Permission of use granted by Keith Goddard (Wck Band Manager)”
Supposedly, Motto was the “producer” of the track. For far too long have Lucians not given Dominicans the credit and notoriety of our early WCK work. Some even call it Lucian music, not even knowing it is Dominican music.
I’m happy for RA. That’s hard work and to finally get pay, for property of that hard work I grew up with. Big up!
Here’s to all “crabs in the barrel” who were bad-mouthing Rah on DNO when the January 25th, 2021 issue of the original related story was published. The brother took a principled stand and Justice has prevailed.
RAH. Positively the man. Who steals my purse steals trash; ’tis something, nothing;
‘Twas mine, ’tis his, and has been slave to thousands;
But he that filches from me my good name
Robs me of that which not enriches him,
And makes me poor indeed.
This reads a lot like an article that was written by AI. DNO do better!
“potential future collaborations” After they attempted to steal your stuff and evaded you for years? Machel wasn’t interested in coming to any solution.
You can never keep a good man down, as who JAH bless (RAH) – no man curse!