Art is a necessity, not a luxury. Amr Mostafa calls for changing permits.

Composer and singer Amr Mostafa sparked widespread controversy after his comments on the current crisis between artists and the Artistic Works Authority regarding the new formula for song concessions. Mostafa described these amendments as directly threatening the future of independent artists in Egypt. Get the latest celebrity ads directly on the Special app, where we show you everything new from international stars.

Amr Mostafa: "Art is not a luxury"

In a statement posted on his official accounts, Amr Mostafa emphasized that Egypt has always been a beacon of art and creativity in the Arab world, but the new model for artistic licenses imposes complex obstacles for independent artists. Enjoy interesting and useful content with an exclusive podcast that provides you with everything you need to know in just a few minutes via the Special app.

He said: "The independent artist is the one who carries Egypt's artistic identity on his shoulders. Art is not a luxury. Art is a soft power that protects Egypt and its image in front of the world." Follow exclusive content that you can't find anywhere else, and enjoy benefits you can't miss with Special, the most popular site in the world.

Call to reconsider the decision Mustafa called on officials to review the new formula for work permits, explaining that his message was not an objection to the regulation, but rather a warning of the danger the amendments pose to the future of creativity. He added, "The primary criterion must be the interests of the creator and the free artist before any financial or bureaucratic considerations." Discover the most beautiful celebrity collectibles through Special, which showcases the most famous items owned by stars and celebrities around the world.

Amr Mostafa was not alone in his objection, as a number of poets and composers expressed their rejection of the amendments.

Poet Tamer Hussein described what is happening as an "infringement on authors' rights" that serves interests other than protecting creativity.

Composer Aziz El Shafei wrote sarcastically: “The General Administration of Copyright is proposing a waiver that would forfeit copyright.. There are so many funny things in Egypt, but it’s laughter like crying,” citing a verse by Al Mutanabbi.