Samidoh's viral hit 'Toxic Love' pulled from YouTube after copyright clash with gospel singer SK Ruri

Celebrated Mugithi maestro Samidoh has suffered a major setback as his chart-topping song ‘Wendo wa Ihera’ (Toxic Love) was abruptly yanked off YouTube.

Samidoh’s track, which had amassed a staggering 4.7 million views, vanished overnight following a copyright infringement claim by gospel artist SK Ruri. 

The controversy stems from Ruri’s allegation that Samidoh’s hit song bears an uncanny resemblance to his 2020 gospel track ‘Thutha wa Maundu’.

Ruri claims the melody was replicated across all four verses and interludes, sparking a heated legal battle over intellectual property rights. 

“Artistes can borrow inspiration, but consent and credit are non-negotiable,” Ruri asserted, stating the importance of adhering to fair-use policies.

The gospel singer, known for his transition from secular to gospel music, revealed that he had reached out to Samidoh on Christmas Eve 2023 via WhatsApp.

While congratulating Samidoh as a “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time), Ruri also raised concerns about the striking similarities between the two songs. 

However, Samidoh reportedly brushed off the claims, dismissing them as “malicious and petty” and accusing Ruri of seeking clout.

Unwilling to let the matter slide, Ruri escalated the issue by filing a formal complaint with the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) and lodging a copyright strike with YouTube. 

After a rigorous three-week review, YouTube sided with Ruri, issuing a seven-day takedown notice before removing ‘Wendo wa Ihera’ for violating copyright rules.

Ruri praised the platform for its diligence, calling the decision a win for artistic integrity. 

With over 50 registered works to his name, Ruri is now on a mission to educate fellow artists about the importance of copyright protection.

“Register every product before release,” he urged. “It’s affordable and safeguards your rights. Intellectual property theft undermines creativity and fairness in our industry.” 

Ruri, who describes himself as being in the “music ministry” rather than the “music industry,” also called for unity among Kenya’s Mugithi artists.

“We must share the industry’s opportunities soberly and equitably,” he said, emphasising the need for collaboration over competition.