Arts Correspondent
A growing number of Zimbabwean musicians have accused popular tribute outfit InTotal Band of profiting from their music and stage personas without permission, reigniting debate over copyright protection and artist compensation.
Gospel musician Fungisai Zvakavapano and sungura superstar Alick Macheso have publicly challenged the band, alleging that it performs their music, mimics their mannerisms and secures lucrative corporate bookings without engaging the original creators.
Fungisai described the practice as a violation of her artistic rights.
“Imagine people impersonating you, replicating your music as is and gathering commercial value from your works without your consent. Not even a cover but note for note, word for word, every move and artistic mannerism,” she said.
She argued that tribute acts should not profit from an artist’s identity and creative work without consent, adding that many musicians have remained silent for fear of victimisation.
Macheso echoed similar concerns, saying InTotal Band had never sought his permission to commercially perform his music.
The controversy has also drawn support from the families of deceased artists. Leonard Dembo’s widow complained that InTotal Band has been performing the late sungura legend’s songs during sold-out concerts without compensating his estate.
Musician Willis Wataffi said tribute bands should pay royalties to artists whose music forms the foundation of their performances.
“A certain percentage of the proceeds should go to the original artists whose music is being used,” Wataffi said.
The dispute has intensified calls for stronger enforcement of Zimbabwe’s copyright laws, with artists demanding that tribute bands obtain licences, seek permission and fairly compensate creators before commercially exploiting their work.
InTotal Band is a Zimbabwean live music ensemble founded in 2014 which brings together accomplished session musicians. It has built its reputation on polished live renditions of classic Zimbabwean music.
Their repertoire spans sungura, Dendera, Chimurenga, gospel and urban grooves, with a particular focus on preserving and reintroducing the work of legendary musicians such as Oliver Mtukudzi, Thomas Mapfumo, Leonard Zhakata, Tongai Moyo and many others to newer generations.
InTotal is also the driving force behind Legends Night, a popular concert concept that celebrates Zimbabwe’s musical heritage through live performances of iconic songs.
