Stell Ajero, one of the members of the popular P-POP group SB19 and one of the coaches on the upcoming singing competition show The Voice Generations, broke his silence regarding the recent controversy surrounding the ‘It’s Showtime’ hosts’ reaction to not being able to play SB19’s massive hit single, ‘Gento,’ on their show.
The incident began when a contestant on ‘It’s Showtime’ requested to perform a dance cover of SB19’s hit track, ‘Gento,’ alongside host Jhong Hilario.
Unfortunately, due to copyright restrictions, the show was unable to play the song. This led to Vice Ganda saying, “Naningil na sila.” Anne Curtis suggested that it could have been a good promotion for the group.
However, the hosts’ comments did not sit well with netizens, particularly the passionate fans of SB19 known as A’Tin. They felt that the discussion on the show had resulted in negative judgment against the group.
The incident sparked a social media movement on Twitter, with the hashtag #RESPECTLOCALARTISTS trending for days in the Philippines.
In our interview last July 3, Stell weighed in on the issue. Speaking up about the incident, he expressed his desire for a proper and respectful discussion regarding music, copyright, and related matters.
“Maganda siya na napag-usapan kasi matagal na rin siyang issue sa Pilipinas, yung mga copyright, at yung about music. Siguro may mali lang talaga doon sa ibang parte kaya nagkaroon ng bashing. Ayaw naman namin na matalakay yung issue, pero may ibang artist na nadadamay o nad-drag down.”
Stell’s statement shed light on the bigger picture, highlighting the long-standing copyright issues in the Philippines and the impact it has on the music industry.
As Stell prepares to take on his role as a coach on ‘The Voice Generations’ alongside esteemed mentors Billy Crawford, Chito Miranda of Parokya ni Edgar, and Julie Anne San Jose, fans eagerly await Stell’s regular appearance on the small screen.
