#SHOWBIZ: Man Senoi: 'How can 4U2C hold a concert if we own the copyright to 25 songs?'

New Straits Times

26-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Composer and producer Man Senoi, and his wife Mama Rap, who also owns the copyright to 4U2C's songs, claim they have not been contacted by anyone regarding the WE 4U2C Live In Concert event, set to take place at the Idea Live Arena in Petaling Jaya on Sept 15.
Man Senoi, whose real name is Othman Masri, 72, and his wife, Ramziah Mohamed Noor, 62, said they should have been informed as they hold the full copyright to a collection of songs from the popular 1990s hip-hop group.
"They signed as artistes under our company, Zman Production. We gathered them and held auditions. Before that, they sang rock songs," he told Harian Metro.
He added, "When we had all seven members, we started looking for a record company but were rejected. Instead, they asked if we could sell the rap concept. Our lives were a real struggle. We sold gold chains to pay for their clothes and training costs. We did some initial publicity in the newspapers, and fans started going crazy for 4U2C."
Man Senoi and Mama Rap said that initial orders of 50,000 units boosted their confidence to release 4U2C's debut album in 1992.
"At that time, there was no name yet. We eventually agreed on the name 4U2C, and it would be under our full management, with BMG record company as a third-party distributor," he explained.
"After the second album, there was friction between us, which ended in court with our side winning. However, they continued to play our songs in their shows, even though the copyright belongs to us."
He added, "There was a feeling of wanting to sue, but when we thought about the other members, we let it go. But now we can't compromise anymore."
Man Senoi questioned how 4U2C could hold a concert when 25 songs, including popular ones, were owned by Zman Production.
"Don't mess with the copyright. Copyright laws in Malaysia are strong. Don't play around. If you're going to do it, do it properly. We're not prohibiting you from using it, but we don't want you to mess with the copyright. I've been to the Copyright Tribunal and I know this stuff."
He issued a stern warning: "Don't try to play with fire. This is dangerous. It would be a pity if the business doesn't work out. Tickets won't sell, and a few other things. This is the truth. We are the ones who paid for the 'tracks'. We are the ones who paid for all the production."
According to him, all 25 songs are their sole property, and the 4U2C members incurred no costs.
"They're just artistes. BMG didn't spend any money either. Don't make a big deal about royalties because we've already paid them directly to BMG," he clarified.
"If you want to do a concert, you have to get a permit. Make sure the song ownership is in black and white. It needs approval from MACP and the record company. That's the right thing to do."
He added, "Only then can the organiser hold the concert. Otherwise, they can't do it blindly. They could be sued later. The lawsuits are very, very expensive. Don't mess around."
The couple, however, are still open to further discussions with the organisers, accompanied by their lawyers.
4U2C sparked a phenomenon in the early 1990s after releasing their debut album, 4U2C, which exploded with hits like "Fiona," "Kami Rappers," "Hip Hop Tip Top Si Jantungku," and "Suara Asia," among many others.