Dim Amor

A sharp musical storm erupted this week following serious allegations of copyright theft leveled against the new duet "Al Tachzeri" (Don't Come Back) by Eyal Golan and Eden Ben Zaken. Azerbaijani producer Nuri Serinlendirici vehemently claims that the song, created for the Israeli singers by Sasson Efram Shaulov, is entirely copied from his original work "GOZLEYIREM" released about a decade ago.

As part of the official appeal submitted to relevant authorities in Israel, a clear ultimatum was issued on behalf of the Azerbaijani producer: "You have one week to remove the song from all digital platforms". The serious allegation raises significant questions about verification processes and adherence to copyright laws in the Israeli music industry.

Nuri Serinlendirici, 46, who was born in Azerbaijan and moved to Turkey before settling in Moscow, released "GOZLEYIREM" about a decade ago, and the song achieved great success among the Azeri community. A decade ago, he also released "Ya, ya, ya", which became his biggest hit. The producer, who underwent a musical journey across different countries and cultures, now claims that his work was stolen without permission or recognition of his rights.

On the other hand, Sasson Shaulov's representatives are trying to calm the situation and present a completely different picture. "Sasson draws inspiration from music around the world; he grew up and was educated on a variety of styles that influence him musically", was stated on his behalf. They continue, noting that "this is not an unusual occurrence in Israeli or international music. He continues constantly to write, compose, and create good music for himself and other artists with the aim of entertaining and strengthening the audience".

However, it appears that the Azerbaijani producer does not intend to settle for statements. According to information received from sources close to his camp, Serinlendirici is planning to file a lawsuit in Israel on grounds of copyright infringement. For this purpose, he has already approached the services of an Israeli lawyer, though his identity has not been disclosed at this stage.

Attempts to establish direct contact with the Azerbaijani producer were unsuccessful, but it is clear that he is determined to act with all legal means at his disposal. Allegations of this type could lead to lengthy and complex legal proceedings, during which the court will be required to examine the degree of similarity between the works and determine whether there is indeed a copyright violation.

The affair raises broader questions about processes in the Israeli music industry. Over the years, several similar cases have been recorded in which foreign creators claimed that their works were copied or adapted without permission. These cases highlight the importance of thorough checks before publishing new works and the need for strict adherence to international copyright rules.

Interestingly, this storm is already bringing unexpected results. The viewing figures for both music videos – the Israeli and Azerbaijani – are rising significantly, raising speculation about the true nature of the dispute. In a world of social media and digital marketing, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish between genuine creator disputes and planned public relations moves.

The central question that still remains is whether the similarity between the works indeed constitutes copyright infringement, or whether we are dealing with coincidental similarities arising from shared musical influences. A definitive answer to this question is expected to be given, apparently, but within the framework of formal legal proceedings, which could drag on for a long time and incur considerable costs for all parties involved.

Meanwhile, the duet "Al Tachzeri" continues to play on digital platforms, and Eyal Golan and Eden Ben Zaken continue to promote it front and center. Whether the song will ultimately be removed, and how this complex affair will end – this will likely be decided in the coming days.

Comments: Eyal Golan, Eden Ben Zaken, and Nuri Serinlendirici – did not provide their responses.

Photo: From the music video of Eyal Golan and Eden Ben Zaken – "Al Tachzeri" (Production: Moshe and Ofek); and also a photo of Nuri Serinlendirici from the official Instagram page nuriserinlendiriciofficial.