‘Funkari’: Shiraz Uppal says Aima Baig stole his lyrics and acknowledged when he provided her proof

Acclaimed vocalist Shiraz Uppal has asserted that Aima Baig appropriated his song 'Funkari.

In July 2023, Aima Baig released 'Funkari,' claiming to have written the lyrics in collaboration with the late renowned lyricist Shakeel Sohail.

Following the release, Shiraz Uppal contended that he not only composed the music for 'Funkari' but also contributed to the lyrics, and he was not duly credited.

Expressing a close bond with Shakeel Sohail, whom he considered like a brother, Shiraz Uppal maitnained that he would never think of taking away his rights. He clarified that he personally crafted both the lyrics and music for 'Funkari.'

“I've produced numerous hits sung by prominent artists including Atif Aslam, such as ‘Tajdar-e-Haram’ and ‘Pehli Dafa.’ Unfortunately, people are adept at misappropriating credits from artists who can't speak for themselves. However, I am in a position to speak up and set a precedent for others to encourage them to do the same."

In a recent interview, Shiraz Uppal addressed the controversy, stating, "Aima Baig stole my song, and she persistently claimed to have co-written the lyrics with my late best friend Shakeel."

According to him, Shakeel Sohail, his closest friend, passed away in June 2020 and he wrote 'Funkari' in November 2020.

"I wrote, composed, and recorded the song. I meticulously keep all the proof of my work. I showed her my chat, and the lyricist she referred to was Shakeel Sohail, my best friend, who passed away in June 2020. I wrote the song in November 2020."

The singer emphasised that despite having clear evidence of his rights, when someone denies it, it becomes annoying. He questioned Aima, asking, "How can someone come out of his grave and write the song?"

Initially rejecting Shiraz Uppal's claim, Aima Baig later admitted that she did not write the lyrics of the song.