Gospel music star Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave has spoken out on the escalating row over cover bands, declaring that she is now concluding her public commentary and leaving the matter to Parliament and relevant institutions to resolve.
In a strongly worded statement that has been widely shared on social media, the award-winning singer said her intervention was never about a personal feud, but about defending the rights and economic interests of original composers and musicians.
At the heart of the debate is a growing trend that has dominated public discussion in recent weeks. A number of bands have built thriving commercial careers performing yesteryear hits, commanding large audiences and lucrative performance fees, while the original authors who hold rights to the discography receive no compensation.
Bands such as Intotal have been cited in the broader public debate as examples of groups that have thrived on replaying classic catalogues, without clear authorisation from the original rights holders.
Zvakavapano-Mashavave said her position is grounded in legal principle. While the law must be respected, she argued, unjust systems that promote exploitation and alienation of creators must be challenged through research and proper due process.
She described her contribution as part of a broader push for what she termed a Music Industry Revolution, a collective effort aimed at protecting composers, authors and performers and ensuring fair systems for licensing and payment of royalties.
Addressing the leak of a private conversation that later went viral, the singer said her initial response was a diplomatic act of respect and professional courtesy in the face of what she termed aggressive arrogance, and should not be mistaken for confusion.
She expressed disappointment that the private exchange was shared on social media without her consent, questioning the legality of such an act. She referenced the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07], which provides for up to two years imprisonment for the unauthorised sharing of private data, but said her upbringing had taught her to let the matter rest.
Zvakavapano-Mashavave added that she will not be silenced and accused those opposing reform of relying on divide-and-rule tactics.
Switching between English and Shona, she declared that for her the matter was now closed until further notice, emphasising that it remains her constitutional right to approach Parliament whenever she is called upon to speak on issues affecting the music industry.
She concluded by urging stakeholders to focus on substantive reforms, noting that weak enforcement of the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act has left many originators, particularly veterans, unable to benefit from their own creations while cover acts continue to profit.
Other musicians such as Chimurenga music legend, Thomas Mapfumo, have also raised concerns over copyright infringement.
Dino Mudondo was left frustrated after a cover band performed all his popular songs just before his own act.
Authorities have been called upon to look into the issue and close any legal gaps existing in the music industry.
