In today’s fast-moving digital world, music travels fast — and so do rumors. Recently, rising Indonesian singer-songwriter Bernadya found herself under fire. Online critics accused her of translating lyrics from Taylor Swift’s songs and repackaging them as her own. These claims spread quickly, putting her artistic integrity under a harsh spotlight.
But is there any truth to these allegations, or are they just another case of baseless internet backlash?
The Accusation: A Mirror of Swift’s Lyrics?
The controversy started when fans on social media noticed similarities between Bernadya’s lyrics and some of Taylor Swift’s most iconic lines. Phrases about heartbreak, vulnerability, and emotional growth seemed to echo Swift’s signature style.
Some claimed her newest single mirrored the mood and wording of Swift’s “All Too Well.” Screenshots, lyric comparisons, and bold accusations began circulating on Twitter and TikTok, fueling the fire. As a result, Bernadya was accused of being unoriginal — or worse, a copycat.
Bernadya Responds: “This Is Personal Work, Not Plagiarism”
In a passionate statement, Bernadya addressed the claims head-on. She firmly denied that any part of her song was translated or copied from another artist’s work. According to her, the song came from her own emotional experiences and heartbreak — not from Taylor Swift’s discography.
“I admire Taylor Swift as an artist,” Bernadya shared on Instagram, “but my lyrics come from my own journey. These words are mine, not borrowed.”
Her fans quickly rallied behind her, defending her creativity and calling the accusations unfair and unfounded.
Inspiration vs. Imitation: A Common Industry Debate
The music industry often blurs the line between influence and imitation. Artists grow up listening to icons like Swift, Adele, and Beyoncé — and it’s natural for those influences to shape their style. However, sounding similar doesn’t always mean plagiarism.
Bernadya’s music, while emotionally rich like Swift’s, brings a unique cultural and personal lens. It reflects her own story, written in her own words, for her own audience.
The Role of Social Media in Escalating Conflicts
Transitioning from music to drama, social media once again played the role of judge, jury, and executioner. A few viral posts snowballed into a full-blown controversy, reminding us how quickly misinformation can damage reputations.
In Bernadya’s case, the backlash seems to stem more from perception than proof. Without direct evidence of translation, the accusations remain just that — accusations.
Final Thoughts: Let the Music Speak
At the end of the day, music is deeply personal. While artists may share themes and emotions, what makes their work original is the voice behind it. Bernadya’s powerful response shows she’s not afraid to defend her art.
Rather than focusing on unfounded comparisons, listeners should give space for new voices to rise — and let their songs speak for themselves.