Singer Sajjad Ali called out social media users for believing misinformation about local artists, clarifying that copyright issues exist worldwide. He urged his followers to celebrate those who appreciate Pakistani music instead of tearing down their own artists.
Ali took to Instagram to break his silence on controversy surrounding claims that he did not allow contestants on Pakistan Idol to perform his songs, while the same tracks have been featured on Indian television programmes. “My songs are appreciated by people from other countries, but nobody makes posts about that,” Ali said, citing examples of international artists including Diljit Dosanjh who covered his hit song Ravi.
The singer added, “This has become a controversy. Please, instead of bringing our artists down, support us. If an artist hasn’t said something themselves, don’t believe it.”
Further, Ali clarified that he had come across a reel of two Indian children singing Ravi beautifully. He stated, “I wanted to praise them but because that programme aired on an Indian channel, many people here criticised it, asking why contestants on Pakistan Idol couldn’t perform my songs while Indian programmes could.”
He also clarified that he had never granted permission or copyright clearance to any Indian television channel. “The first thing people need to understand is that I have never given an Indian channel permission to use my songs,” he said, adding that they “simply use them without permission.” The singer noted that his team would look into the matter.
Addressing the Pakistan Idol controversy, Ali said people had been discussing the issue for over a year based on inaccurate information. “They claimed I held a press conference about it. I didn’t. I had a press conference in Toronto for one of my shows, where I was asked several questions,” he said, adding that he spoke about Pakistan Idol and its judges, explaining why each of them deserved to be there. “I also said there should be more programmes like it to give young people opportunities to showcase their talent,” the singer clarified.
Stressing that international franchises operate under strict licensing agreements involving multiple artists, technicians, and significant budgets, Ali stated, “Artists who finance their own work and invest their own money cannot simply hand over the rights to use their music. It’s a straightforward legal matter.”
He also pointed out that he is not the only artist who has withheld permission for the commercial use of his music. “People keep saying I didn’t give them permission, but that’s an unfair way to frame it. I’ve spent years building my career without sponsorships or outside support. Many other artists have also chosen not to license their songs. Please mention them as well,” he said.
The singer concluded, “My fans are strong, and this kind of misinformation cannot bring my career down,” warning that misinformation on social media has become a serious issue and urging his followers to verify facts before making assumptions or spreading claims about artists.Latest News, Breaking News & Top News Stories | The Express TribuneLife And Style DeskRead More