Lanterfantje: Auteur Wil Lied Offline

A new carnival song, “Carnaval, Wie Viert Het Niet?!,” released two weeks ago by the Tilburg duo Lanterfantje, is facing potential removal at the request of singer Henk Temming. The dispute centers around the song’s melody, which is based on “Sinterklaas, Wie Kent Hem Niet,” a song co-written by Temming and Henk Westbroek.

The Dispute Over Authorship

Lanterfantje, comprised of journalist Thomas van Groningen and DJ Koen Verhoof, secured permission from Henk Westbroek to create a carnival version of the original song. However, they did not seek approval from Temming, the other original author. This oversight led to a communication from Temming’s music publisher requesting the song be taken offline and cease further use.

Temming’s Concerns

According to a message from Temming’s management, the singer is unhappy with the new lyrics. The song features the lines, “Carnaval, who doesn’t celebrate?! Carnaval, carnaval, and of course beer and fries.”

Did You Know? Henk Westbroek co-wrote the original song, “Sinterklaas, Wie Kent Hem Niet,” with Henk Temming.

Westbroek’s Perspective and Legal Considerations

Henk Westbroek has publicly stated that Temming need not worry about lost royalties, asserting that the new version does not infringe on the original copyright. Lanterfantje believes they have a legal basis for the song, arguing that adapting a song with altered lyrics to create a parody does not require additional permission. Van Groningen stated, “If you cover a song and you change the text, so that it becomes a parody, then you are allowed to.”

Expert Insight: Disputes over musical adaptations and parodies are common, often hinging on the degree to which the new work transforms the original. Copyright law aims to balance the rights of creators with the public interest in allowing creative expression, and the line between permissible parody and copyright infringement can be complex.

This is not the first time Lanterfantje has faced issues with a carnival song. In 2023, their song “Ladder Zat,” a parody of Claude’s “Ladada (Mon Dernier Mot),” was removed from Spotify at the request of the original artist just one day after its release.

What Could Happen Next

The situation could unfold in several ways. Temming could pursue legal action to enforce his demand for the song’s removal. Alternatively, the parties could reach a compromise, potentially involving a licensing agreement or a modification of the lyrics. It is also possible that the matter will be resolved informally, with Lanterfantje continuing to release the song without further objection. A possible next step could involve further communication between the parties and their legal representatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Lanterfantje?

Lanterfantje is a Tilburg-based duo consisting of journalist Thomas van Groningen and DJ Koen Verhoof.

What song is “Carnaval, Wie Viert Het Niet?!” based on?

The song is based on “Sinterklaas, Wie Kent Hem Niet,” originally performed by Het Goede Doel with Henk Westbroek and Henk Temming.

What is Henk Temming’s issue with the song?

Henk Temming’s management stated that he does not appreciate the new lyrics and wants the song removed from circulation.

How do you think artists should balance creative freedom with respecting the original work of others?