The singer Angela Similea reacted after the chorus of her song “Casa mea” was used in an information campaign regarding the safety of the population, initiated by Distrigaz Sud Rețele in partnership with the Department for Emergency Situations (DSU), without the artist being consulted.
In an open letter, Angela Similea expressed her support for the purpose of the campaign, but emphasized the importance of respecting artists’ rights: “First of all, I want to say that I am happy when my music ends up accompanying initiatives that have an important purpose, especially when it comes to people’s safety. I believe that such campaigns are necessary, can save lives and can have a real impact. That is exactly why I choose to look at this moment with openness. At the same time, however, I feel the need to emphasize, respectfully, that the use of this excerpt was made without my permission being asked.”
The artist stated that she does not request the withdrawal of the material or financial compensation.
“I only wish that this gesture would be a starting point for more attention and dialogue in the relationship between companies, institutions and artists. A simple message would have been enough to transform this situation into a natural collaboration. I hope that this approach will be an occasion for reflection, about how important it is to respect the artistic work and the rights of those who create, regardless of the context. Music is not only sound, but also work, emotion and a genuine connection with the public. And respect for this work is, I think, essential”, she announced.
Angela Similea also conveyed that the goal of the campaign is a priority and that she wants the message to reach as many people as possible:
“Artists live by what they offer to the public, and the connection between us is one full of emotions and based on mutual respect. I want the message of this campaign to reach as many people as possible and fulfill the purpose for which it was created. At the same time, I hope that, in the future, collaborations between companies, institutions and artists will be built on transparency, communication and respect. I thank you, those who have always been by my side, and I assure you that I appreciate every thought and every experience you carry on through my music”, concluded the artist.
Distrigaz Sud Networks reaction
Distrigaz Sud Rețele commented on the artist’s post, expressing its regret for the misunderstanding created.
“We inform you that Distrigaz Sud Rețele has contracted the copyright for the broadcast of the song, and the intermediary entity will contact you as soon as possible to clarify the situation. Broadcasting the spot would not have been possible without the fulfillment of this obligation. We thank you for your understanding and we assure you of full transparency and cooperation to resolve this misunderstanding as quickly as possible.”
The artist returned to her Facebook page, with another post, thanking for the clarifications.
“I understand that Distrigaz Sud Rețele has acted in accordance with the legal provisions, as the party that initiated this campaign. However, I would like to specify that obtaining the rights for the broadcast of any song should also include the rights related to the copyright (which belong to the performer). In order not to be misunderstood, my intervention, naturally, was generated precisely by the fact that I was not told anything at all, by anyone, regarding the inclusion of my interpretation in this campaign. And I I ask, where am I in this equation?”wrote Angela Similea.
