As a globally recognized artist, I have always prioritized the integrity and originality of my work. Unfortunately, recent events have highlighted the urgent need for artists to safeguard their intellectual property rights. This case concerns the unauthorized distribution of my music over the past eight years, and the steps I am taking to secure accountability.

1. Unauthorized Distribution of My Music

In 2016, I entered into a limited agreement related to the release of my music as part of a compilation CD for the Masters of Puppets Festival. I am not only a contributing artist but also the compiler of this music release. The intention behind this release was not for widespread commercial distribution, and I did not consent to the exploitation of my name or music on a broader scale.

However, without my knowledge or approval, the rights to these releases were transferred to Blackout Records, a third-party label, which proceeded to distribute and sell my music across various platforms.

2. Repeated Requests for Licensing and Documentation Ignored

In Autumn 2024, another artist featured on the compilation approached me to ask if I had received any royalties from the release. Upon further investigation, it appears no royalties had been paid to me, and it seems that others involved may not have received royalties either. Despite my repeated requests for licensing agreements and official documentation, the responses I received were either unhelpful or did not adequately address my concerns. One such response from the Label Head of Blackout Records included the direct challenge: “VERKLAG MICH GERNE, Ich werde deinen Forderungen nicht nachkommen” (“Sue me, I will not comply with your demands”). (this happened twice btw)
This lack of respect for my intellectual property, coupled with the dismissal of my legitimate requests, has left me with no option but to consider further legal action.

3. Unpaid Royalties and Unauthorized Earnings

The unauthorized distribution of my works across platforms such as Spotify and Bandcamp and other Platforms led to significant financial gain for those responsible (see evidence drop 1) —gains from which I was excluded. Over the span of eight years, I did not receive the royalties or recognition that are rightfully mine. Despite multiple inquiries into these missing payments, no satisfactory explanation or documentation was ever provided.

4. Legal Action and Platform Cooperation

In response to these violations, I have taken decisive action to protect my rights and stop further unauthorized use of my work. So far, I have successfully enforced copyright claims on YouTube, leading to the removal of unauthorized content. Currently, the situation is under investigation by Spotify and other platforms, which are expected to take similar measures.

5. A Call for Accountability and the Protection of Artistic Rights

This case is not merely about reclaiming what is rightfully mine, but about ensuring that artists are treated with the respect they deserve. I will continue to pursue full accountability from those responsible for these violations, and work towards preventing future infringements.

This battle is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the importance of protecting artists’ intellectual property in an age where exploitation is all too common. The fight for artistic rights is far from over, but I am committed to ensuring that the music industry remains a space where creators can thrive without fear of exploitation.

Moving Forward: A Commitment to Change

The past months have been a challenging journey, but they have only strengthened my commitment to protecting my work and supporting other artists in similar situations. I am grateful for the continued support from my fans, peers, and the creative community, and I will continue to fight for a more just and respectful environment for artists everywhere.

Stay tuned for further updates as I work towards resolving this issue and ensuring that the rights of all artists are better protected in the future.

Samuel Zimmermann (Parandroid)

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Thank you for your generous donation! This is truly a David vs. Goliath situation, and your support is helping me stand strong in the fight for justice.

Evidence Drop 1 – First set of evidence

The sales figures provided here, taken from just two platforms—Bandcamp and Spotify —clearly illustrate the scope of the unauthorized distribution of my music. Despite not receiving a single cent from these sales, my music was exploited across various platforms, generating significant profits for others. These screenshots and the video serve as a small but telling piece of evidence in a much larger pattern of unlawful distribution.

This is only one example of how my name and music were used to generate revenue without my consent or proper compensation. It’s important to note that the exploitation extended beyond Bandcamp, with my work being distributed across multiple platforms, all of which contributed to an ongoing, systematic profit stream built on my creativity. There was also a Physical CD produced.

The scale of this unlawful enrichment is both shocking and unprecedented. There is very little precedent for a case of this magnitude, where an artist’s rights are so blatantly disregarded for such an extended period.

This evidence drop aims to shine a light on the injustice I’ve faced, but it’s just the beginning. I am committed to holding those responsible accountable and ensuring that my work is properly recognized and compensated.

Evidence in this post:

1. Bandcamp Sales (Photo+Video)

2. Spotify Streams

3. Discogs Listing