A copyright scandal involving Thien Y Thuan has reportedly sent shockwaves through the Chinese music industry. The incident occurred during her solo concert in Shenzhen on the evening of 28/3, where Y Thuan performed "Li Bai", a song composed and copyrighted by Li Ronghao.

Li Ronghao subsequently accused Thien Y Thuan's team of deliberately violating intellectual property law. He revealed that prior to the concert, Y Thuan's representatives had sought to purchase the copyright, but his company sent an email refusing permission. Despite this, the singer proceeded to perform "Li Bai" as initially planned.

Singer Thien Y Thuan. Photo: Weibo

On Weibo, Ronghao expressed his frustration: "I hope you don't say you didn't know, or blame it on the company's mistake, as that doesn't fit your dismissive attitude. And I hope you don't cry on stage to gain sympathy. Because when you violated the law, you were very confident. In just a few short years, to go from a timid girl crying on stage to a singer openly breaking the law, it's truly unimaginable."

Both Thien Y Thuan and her company have since posted apology letters to Li Ronghao. In the early hours of 30/3, Y Thuan stated on Weibo that she was deeply ashamed. "I performed the song 'Li Bai' despite not having the author's consent, causing harm to Mr. Li Ronghao and betraying the trust of my audience. I extend my sincerest apologies to all those hurt by this incident."

Li Ronghao, a leading Chinese musician and singer, is the husband of actress Rainie Yang. Photo: Weibo

Thien Y Thuan's team announced they would cease using any images or lyrics related to "Li Bai", acknowledging that her actions had a negative impact on the arts community. She committed to using personal funds to pay royalties and compensation for the incident.

Y Thuan urged her fans not to argue with or attack Li Ronghao. "The mistake is entirely mine, it has nothing to do with anyone else," the singer wrote.

Following Thien Y Thuan's apology post, Li Ronghao stated that he "did not demand compensation", advising her to "go to bed early as she had performed hard."

The 24-year-old singer rose to fame after winning Sing China in 2020, a show similar to The Voice. During the competition, Li Ronghao was one of four judges and notably the only one who did not press the "select" button to recruit Thien Y Thuan to his team.

With her soulful voice, Y Thuan has become one of the most prominent young singers in the Chinese music industry, earning the nickname "Tieu Vuong Phi". Experts believe she possesses the qualities to follow in the footsteps of her senior, Faye Wong. Thien Y Thuan once responded to comparisons with Faye Wong by saying, "I certainly cannot become her, nor can I surpass her; I want to express my respect for her achievements."

By Nhu Anh (according to Sina)