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| Li Ronghao vs Shan Yichun: Copyright Dispute Over ‘Li Bai’ Performance Sparks Industry Backlash. (Credits: Sina) |
Chinese singer-songwriter Li Ronghao has publicly accused rising vocalist Shan Yichun of performing his hit track “Li Bai” without authorisation, igniting a fast-moving dispute that has drawn scrutiny across the mainland music industry and beyond.
On 29 March, Li Ronghao issued a detailed statement criticising Shan Yichun’s decision to include “Li Bai” in her Shenzhen concert setlist on 28 and 29 March.
According to Li Ronghao, Shan Yichun’s team had formally applied for permission to perform the track but were explicitly refused via email.
Despite that rejection, the song was still performed live, which Li Ronghao argues constitutes a clear infringement of copyright.
The producer further stated that relevant copyright bodies had confirmed no licence had been granted for the performance, reinforcing his claim that the usage lacked any legal basis.
His remarks were direct and unusually pointed, questioning Shan’s “position, authority, perspective, and mindset” in proceeding with the performance regardless.
The dispute carries added weight given the prior professional connection between the two artists.
Li Ronghao noted that he had previously supported Shan Yichun during her early career, making the situation, in his words, particularly disappointing.
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| Li Ronghao Calls Out Shan Yichun for Alleged Copyright Infringement at Shenzhen Concert. (Weibo) |
He also dismissed the suggestion that the performance could qualify as a creative reinterpretation, arguing that the arrangement showed only minimal deviation from the original composition and therefore did not meet the threshold for a distinct new work.
Shan Yichun’s side moved quickly in response. An initial public apology acknowledged the issue and pledged to clarify the situation internally.
A later, more detailed statement suggested that responsibility lay partly with event organisers, citing reliance on third-party assurances regarding licensing.
Shan Yichun nevertheless stated she would accept full financial liability. Li Ronghao, however, rejected the notion of compensation as a resolution, stating he had no interest in payment and emphasising that the issue at stake was respect for original work and industry rules.
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| Apology |
The controversy has since widened into a broader conversation about copyright discipline in China’s live music sector. Legal commentators have pointed out that commercial performances require explicit written authorisation, regardless of whether arrangements are altered.
Without sufficient originality in adaptation, such performances remain legally tied to the original rights holder.
Some fans and observers have backed Li Ronghao’s stance, framing it as a necessary assertion of creative rights in an industry where boundaries are often tested. Others have taken a more sympathetic view towards Shan Yichun, describing the situation as a procedural failure or miscommunication rather than deliberate disregard.
A separate strand of commentary has focused less on blame and more on what the incident reveals about structural gaps in concert licensing practices.
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The debate has also revived earlier commentary surrounding Shan Yichun’s rapid rise. Online discussions referenced past advice she received from senior figures in the industry about maintaining discipline and grounding amid early success.
For some, the current dispute is being read as a cautionary moment rather than a defining misstep.
Li Ronghao has since indicated he will not continue to address the matter publicly but retains the right to pursue further action. Shan Yichun has confirmed she will no longer perform “Li Bai” and will handle any resulting liabilities.
While the immediate conflict may be stabilising, its implications for artists, management teams, and organisers remain unresolved.
Will stricter oversight follow, or will this be another flashpoint that fades without reform?