Ahmad Dhani Officially Bans Once Mekel from Singing Dewa 19's Song
Musician Ahmad Dhani has officially banned vocalist Once Mekel from singing Dewa 19.
It is forbidden to sing the Dewa 19 song if Once holds a solo concert or sings outside of Dewa 19.
"I announced that I banned Once from singing the Dewa 19 song. Since I said it in the media today. I banned Once Mekel or Elfonda Once from singing the Dewa 19 song," said Ahmad Dhani when met in the Pluit area, North Jakarta, Tuesday (28/ 3/2023).
According to Dhani, his decision was protected by regulations from the Directorate General of Intellectual Property and Rights (Dirjen HAKI).
"According to the Director General of Intellectual Property Rights, if there is an announcement from a songwriter, that is the right of the composer," said Ahmad Dhani.
The 50-year-old musician revealed the reasons for banning Once from singing the Dewa 19 song.
"Because now Dewa 19 is on tour. After Eid, twice a week later, they will tour with Dewa 19," said Dhani.
"So there shouldn't be another disturbing concert that uses Dewa 19's song. Once is prohibited from singing Dewa's song for the concert," he continued.
Dhani's ban on Once only applies to Dewa 19 songs.
Ahmad Dhani still allows his songs other than Dewa 19 to be sung by Once.
"Another Dhani song is allowed, Dewa 19's song is not allowed. My song on T.R.I.A.D, AHMAD BAND, is allowed. Specifically for Dewa 19, it is not allowed," said Dhani.
Ahmad Dhani said that Dewa 19's concert schedule is currently full until 2023.
"I maintain the purity of the Dewa concert which is held after Eid. Until I announce it again. Because the Dewa 19 concert is full until December 2023. I don't want Once to sing the Dewa 19 song again," concluded Ahmad Dhani.
Previously, Ahmad Dhani and Once argued about song royalties.
So far, said Once, the issue of royalties for Dewa 19's song is being sought for a middle ground.