TOP 10 NEWS OF THIS WEEK (MAR 19 - MAR 25)

Legendary singer SP Balasubramaniam took to his Facebook page to say that he has received a legal notice from an attorney representing music director Ilayaraaja for singing his songs in a concert.

“Dear all, Greetings from US. Had great shows in Seattle and LA last weekend. Grateful for the love you all showered upon us and the professional way the organizers conducted the shows.

Couple of days back, an Attorney representing Shri.Iliaya Raja, sent legal notices to me, Smt.Chithra, Charan, organisers of the concerts in different cities and the managements of all the venues, which says that we are not supposed to perform compositions of Shri.Iliayaraja without his permission, if so, it is breaking the copyright law and have to pay huge financial penalities and face legal action. Let me say, I am ignorant of these legalities.

My Son designed this world tour andwekick started this SPB50 conncert tour in August in Toranto, then we performed in Russia, Srilanka, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai and did lots of shows in India too. I did not get any feelers from Shri. Raja's office at that time. I dont know why now when we started our US tour. As I said earlier, I am ignorant of the law. If it is a law, so be it and I obey it.

In these circumstances, our troupe cannot perform Isaijnani's compositions from to day. But the show should happen.By God'sgrace I have sung lots of other composer's songs too which we will present. Hope you all will bless our concerts as usual. I am always grateful for your love and affection.

I only request you all not to have any harsh opinions and discussions regarding this. If this is the design of God, I obey it with reverence.

Dear friends, I could have certainly talked to him, had he talked or sent a mail to me prior to our tour. But when I get a legal notice, either I have to respond legally, which I never want to, or, accept the law. I too have self-respect. Please let us stop the futile discussion and move ahead.

My intention of this information is to prepare the audience. I do not want my good friend Shri Raja inconvenienced.I do not want my sponsors and concert organizers to get hurt sentimentally and financially. Thank you.”

*SPB's statement is not spell-checked!