Why Was Odeya's Song Removed From Spotify? The Answer Is Shocking

Israeli singer Odeya Azoulay is speaking out for the first time after her new single "Papi" sparked a global firestorm of criticism. The musician has found herself at the center of a heated controversy involving international superstar Bad Bunny and a wave of pro-Palestinian backlash.

The uproar began when social media users discovered that the cover art for Azoulay's "Papi" was nearly identical to that of Bad Bunnys album "Debí Tirar Más Fotos". The striking similarity led many of Bad Bunny's fans, particularly in Puerto Rico, and a host of pro-Palestinian activists to accuse Azoulay of art theft. The online condemnation was swift and severe with comments ranging from "You're not Latina. Thief to Free Palestine."

The controversy escalated when Spotify temporarily removed Azoulay's song though it was later reinstated.

On Wednesday night, Azoulay took to Instagram to issue a public statement. In a series of posts, she defended her actions framing the album art not as an act of plagiarism, but as a tribute and gesture of appreciation to Bad Bunny.

"I usually don't respond, but when it comes to art and music, its stronger than me." She wrote.

Azoulay emphasized that she mentions Bad Bunny's name three times in her song, arguing:

"Who steals and then says where they stole from inside the song?" She explained that homages of this kind are a common practice among artists, particularly internationally.

Odeya also offered an apology to those who were offended, clarifying that her actions were motivated by admiration and respect. The singer concluded her message with a pointed "thank you" to her supporters who stood up to the antisemites who attacked her in Instagram this week.