Celebrating World IP Day: thoughts from our Editorial Board

As World Intellectual Property Day approaches on 26 April, 2025, we asked our Editorial Board for their thoughts on this year’s focus: ‘IP and music: feel the beat of IP.’

Providing unique insight from their respective jurisdictions, our Editorial Board members reflect on the vital role that IP plays in supporting the innovation and protection of music.

“As World IP Day on April 26, 2025, approaches, the theme ‘IP and music: feel the rhythm of IP,’ resonates deeply with China’s vibrant creative landscape and global trends.

 

“Music, as a universal language, transcends borders and cultures, uniting people through shared emotions and innovation. IP is the backbone of this vibrant ecosystem, empowering creators (songwriters, performers, and technicians) to thrive while ensuring their contributions are protected and valued. Copyright protection is the fair auto-tuner for every hit song, ballad, and TikTok hit. Patent protection is the remix that turns cool technology into the next-generation beat. Trademark protection is the music industry aligned with trust and creativity, turning musicians into brands and brands into global phenomena. Without these IP protections, the music industry is like a guitar without strings—lots of noise but no harmony.

 

“In China, the rapid development of the digital music industry and cross-sector collaboration from streaming platforms to AI-driven creations demonstrate how IP promotes creativity and economic vitality. Across the globe, strong IP frameworks enable artists to reach wider audiences while fair remuneration sustains their livelihoods. This year’s celebrations remind us that IP protection is not only a legal mechanism but also a catalyst for human progress, connecting cultures and promoting inclusive growth. Let us pay tribute to the innovators who shape the soundtrack of our lives and advocate for a future where IP and global cooperation work in harmony. Together, we can ensure that the beat of creativity benefits all humanity.”

Gang HU, Deputy General Manager, China Patent Agent (H.K.) Ltd.

“The theme of World IP Day this year is ‘IP and music: feel the beat of IP,’ and what a great theme it is. IP and music are intrinsically linked, as a form of creative work automatically protected by copyright law with respect to the lyrics, composition, recording, and performance. Not only is music automatically protected by copyright, but it can also be registered as a trademark. In particular, there has been an increase in successful sound marks at the UK IPO in the last few years. It is important that we reflect on IP rights within the music industry and how this can lead innovation and creativity.”

Charlotte Wilding, Partner, Keltie LLP

“This World IP Day, we celebrate the powerful role that intellectual property plays in shaping a vibrant global music industry. While copyrights often take center stage for musicians, there is a strong supporting role for trademarks to play in helping artists build a recognizable brand that resonates with their audiences. From the tour name, as we see with Lady Gaga’s recent tour, to merchandise, streaming services, and more, a distinctive and strong trademark ensures that the brand names and logos tied to the music can maintain and distinctive edge and build a loyal following based on trust. The rhythm of music is global, and protecting the IP behind it ensures we all keep feeling the beat.”

Stacey C. Kalamaras, Founding Partner, Kalamaras Law Office, LLC

“This World IP Day, we are invited to ‘feel the beat of IP’ and celebrate the universal language of music, and there is no theme more unifying for Jamaica.

 

“The music industry is one of Jamaica’s most recognizable exports, a major economic driver, and a source of pride. Music is a part of our national identity, and those who have visited our island know you can’t go far without being surrounded by music. From reggae and ska to dub and dancehall, Jamaican artists and innovators have profoundly influenced global music culture. Unfortunately, although music has become one of our claims to fame, too frequently we see situations where Jamaican artists are not aware of their IP Rights and are not fairly compensated for their contributions.

 

“This World IP Day, I’m looking forward to celebrating our talent and those who continue to lead and influence music on the world stage. Likewise, I’m hoping that everyone gets a chance to learn about their rights and how they can be leveraged to their benefit and to continue to protect our unique cultural expressions and contribute to Jamaica’s development as a whole.”

Rachael Lodge Corrie, Partner, FOGA DALEY

“Music is a universal language that enriches the lives of many. India is one of the largest music markets, producing 20-25K songs annually. It is the second-largest music streaming market globally, estimated to cross USD 700 billion by 2030.

 

“AI in music poses two challenges – one for AI-created new content regarding ownership and the second for content carved out of IP by generative AI, which infringes copyright.

 

“Experts championing creator rights believe that the key is to find a balance and not to shun technology.

 

“With regard to a new law to cover AI, a statement at governmental level was issued in 2024 stating that the exclusive rights of a copyright owner granted by the prevalent Indian law already obligates the user of generative AI to obtain prior permission to use works for commercial purposes if such use is not covered under fair dealing. The Indian Performing Right Society Ltd., a government-authorized copyright society, represents the creative interests by issuing music licenses and helping creators get royalties.

 

“In 2024, the Bombay High Court, in the first such case, granted an injunction to a Bollywood singer curbing AI platforms from cloning his voice. WIPO’s initiative to celebrate music and IP is an opportunity for us to be cognizant of AI, which has the potential to advance creative interests but also to hamper IP rights. A balanced approach is the need of the hour to ensure that AI tools help foster a fair environment, both in terms of content creation and DRM systems.”

Misum Hossain, Founder & Head, Lincoln Legal Chambers