Timeline of Events:

• Autumn 2024: Discovery of unauthorized distribution of “VA Masterz of Puppets” and additional music by Blackout Records. Artists, including Parandroid, began contacting the label seeking clarity and resolution.

• November 15, 2024: Formal contact made with Blackout Records, informing them of copyright breaches and requesting licenses or documentation to address the issue amicably.

• November 15 – December 9, 2024: Over the course of 25 days, multiple attempts were made to negotiate mutual agreements. Despite these efforts, no satisfactory resolution was achieved, prompting the activation of legal responses.

• December 9-10, 2024: The first three confirmed copyright strikes were issued against the Blackout Records YouTube channel.

• Following Days: Two additional copyright strikes were submitted. With five strikes confirmed, YouTube expedited the termination of Blackout Records’ channel due to extreme copyright violations.

The music industry thrives on creativity and innovation, but it also demands accountability and integrity. The recent termination of Blackout Records’ digital channels marks a significant turning point for many artists who have long struggled with exploitation and mismanagement. At Audionerdz, we see this as a moment to support creators and push for better industry practices.

Understanding the Situation:

Samuel Zimmermann, globally known as Parandroid, is a pioneering artist in the Hi-Tech Psytrance scene. In Autumn 2024, he discovered that his work, including the “VA Masterz of Puppets” CD (produced in 2016), had been distributed without proper authorization by Blackout Records. This revelation unveiled a larger pattern of exploitation, with other artists similarly affected.

Blackout Records had engaged in the unauthorized distribution of music, failing to provide necessary licenses or royalties to the creators. After numerous attempts to resolve the issue amicably, including direct communication and opportunities to rectify the situation, legal action became the only viable course.

The Fallout:

The termination of Blackout Records’ YouTube channel represents a significant victory for artists who have been wronged. However, it is only one step in a larger journey toward accountability and fairness. Other platforms where the unauthorized content remains must still be addressed, and the affected artists need continued support to recover from the impact of these violations.

How Audionerdz is Supporting Artists

The closure of Blackout Records’ channels leaves many artists in a difficult position, wondering how to reclaim their music and move forward. Audionerdz is committed to being a resource and ally for these creators. Here’s how we are helping:

1. Guidance on Recovering Music Rights

We are working with industry professionals to help artists reclaim control over their music. This includes removing unauthorized uploads and offering advice on re-releasing tracks independently.

2. Free Copyright Education

Understanding intellectual property rights is essential for every creator. Audionerdz has launched a free Copyright School to provide artists with the knowledge they need to protect their work, covering topics like licensing, royalties, and distribution.

3. Audionerdz as a Platform for Artists

While Audionerdz is not a record label, we are expanding our platform to help creators distribute their music independently. We prioritize fair practices, empowering artists to take control of their creative and financial futures.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action for the Community

The termination of Blackout Records’ channels is not just a victory for those directly affected but a wake-up call for the broader music industry. It underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and education. At Audionerdz, we stand with every artist who has been impacted and remain committed to fostering a fair and ethical music landscape.

To the artist community: Now is the time to take charge of your music, educate yourself on the business side of your craft, and support one another. Together, we can ensure that such exploitation becomes a thing of the past.

Stay tuned to Audionerdz for resources, updates, and tools designed to empower creators and help them thrive in this new chapter.

Need help or guidance? Contact us at Audionerdz – we’re here to support you.

#MusicRights #Accountability #Audionerdz #SupportCreators #FairMusicIndustry

Video Proof of Unauthorized Sales

Photographic Evidence of Unauthorized Sales