Uzbek National Artist Yulduz Usmanova, in an interview ahead of her solo concerts scheduled for April 12–30, sharply criticized the high expenses of performers, lack of payment for appearances at state events, and a proposed tax document. She openly discussed the hardships faced by artists and called out, "Don't kill art!", highlighting systemic issues in the cultural sector.

Reflecting on the pressures of artistic life, Usmanova stated, "I take medicine every day, I don't know how to calm myself. My husband asks: 'Why are you worried?' How can I not be worried? I go on stage with my children, can you imagine?" She criticized the modern concert scene for often prioritizing spectacle (e.g., lasers and lighting) over musical substance, emphasizing that songs themselves should be the focus to ensure lasting legacy.

Regarding the planned tax initiative, set to take effect from September 1, 2026, which would register services of artists and hosts in the "Soliq" app and tax them on a "one performance – one payment" basis, Usmanova expressed strong opposition. She said, "Let our leaders hear – those who bring materials to our president are making a big mistake. I kept silent, but now I will speak. They say: 'There is extravagance at weddings, artists need to be reduced.' If we are extravagance, don't invite us to your concerts. Why do you include us in state event programs?"

Usmanova underscored the significant costs artists bear, such as visiting cosmetologists and wearing expensive attire, noting, "An artist is a public figure. They are the face of the people. Are we America? We have our own customs. But do they pay us even for one song? Does the state have enough money to commission a song for a holiday? Pay – then there will be no discussions." She pointed to what she called "real extravagance" in the lives of senators, deputies, and their daughters, arguing that blaming artists is misguided.

On the tax issue, Usmanova declared, "Who can endure this, who will work, who will create new songs? Kill art already! Not just tax – you can make the license 10 times more expensive! Sing the songs yourselves!" She also asserted that before discussing taxes, the state should collect and pay her royalties for years of using her songs: "Wherever I am at an event, I always hear my song. Let the state first collect and give me my royalties, then talk about taxes. I will now demand my money. I won't sing songs."

Source: kun.uz