Jahongir Otajonov: “I will pay taxes, but let ‘Uzbekconcert’ not disturb me”

Singer Jahongir Otajonov expressed his opinion about introducing taxes for artists, relations with “Uzbekconcert,” and mandatory performances.

— I am ready to pay taxes; it is not difficult for me to give money to the state. When and in what order it will happen, time will show. But if possible, I will pay willingly, because this money goes to my country.

One question arises: what will be “Uzbekconcert”’s duty after we pay taxes? As an independent creator, can we break ties with them? Previously there was a license, now we are taxpayers, can we get rid of “Uzbekconcert”? As a musician, sometimes I do not feel the need for this organization. On the contrary, sometimes it can interfere with our work. Therefore, I want my rights fully protected.

Currently, they do not force us to mandatory work, but earlier if we did not attend a wedding, they would deprive us of a license. Therefore, the concern “what will they say this time?” still exists.

I am satisfied with life, and if I need to give part of what I earn to taxes, I agree. Only with one condition: no one disturbs me. As a taxpayer, I want to be independent. Fine, I will go, but let them pay according to my work.

For example, if 200 million is spent on a wedding, this includes expenses and service fees, and the remaining net profit is taxed — that is logical. But going for free and paying taxes at the same time is illogical.

We hear that world stars sometimes do not pay taxes and face criminal responsibility, but nobody disturbs them. Let “Uzbekconcert” leave me alone, not force me. They pay money — I provide the service.

During Navruz events, I look at it the same way: I serve the people, but I do not have to work for free. We all earn our living this way. If everything is free, then we all serve each other for free, — says the singer.