New generation of Uruguayan musicians turning to copyright with Frecuencia
With more than 200 young artists filling the room with questions about registrations, contracts, and royalties, Frecuencia wasn't just a talk or a showcase: It was a sign of change.
AGADU held the latest edition of its Frecuencia series, bringing together more than 150 young musicians, composers, producers, and students for an intensive day about the pillars of the music industry. The discussion "Music: Art, Business, and Law" demonstrated the vibrant interest of the new generations as well as underscored the need for training and support on legal and commercial aspects. This Frecuencia was supported by CIAM partner alliance ALCAM. In Spanish, Frecuencia means not only frequency, but “to be where things happen”.
AGADU Board of Directors Secretary General and ALCAM Representative Diego Drexler set the tone for the meeting: “AGADU is going to turn 100 soon... but we're looking ahead to the future. It's great that you're here because this place belongs to you.”
What was evident throughout the conference was the thirst for knowledge among young creators. Topics such as registering works, properly managing metadata for royalty collection, understanding publishing and recording contracts, and rights and obligations in the digital environment were in focus.
Drexler was emphatic about the importance of registering works: “If you don't add registrations or metadata to the songs you upload, you won't receive the money these platforms generate from streaming your music.” Regarding contracts, he cautioned: “Don't sign any contract they put on the table…you can come to AGADU. Our doors are open. We have a legal department. We have many people here to help you.”
Pilar Mora, producer of Gaucho, provided a valuable perspective on professionalization: “Understand that the work belongs to each of you and that has value.” She advised on the importance of authenticity and teamwork: “Be faithful to your music… surrounding yourself with a good team is the key to success.”
Music producer Max Suárez highlighted the duality of music: “Be aware that music, in addition to being art, is also a business. You have to understand the rules of that business.”
Young artists asked questions ranging from sampling and moral rights to ISWC and ISRC codes.
Frecuencia was not only filled with words and advice, but vibrated with live music by Blua, Cuarteto Agricultor, Juli Silberberg, Igna Arricar, and DJ Jo González.
