Octopizzo is accused by Les Wanyika of using their sound without permission

During an interview with this writer, the renowned Kenyan band Les Wanyika accused rapper Octopizzo of stealing their famous songs without permission, which sparked debates regarding intellectual property rights in the country’s music industry. As Les Wanyika gets ready for their eagerly awaited performance at SoulFest, an occasion that honors Kenyan musical talent across generations, this controversy unfolds.

One of East Africa’s most important bands, Les Wanyika was founded in 1978. For for than 40 years, audiences have been enthralled by their timeless lyrics and mellow Swahili melodies. Songs like “Barua,” “Sina Makosa,” and “Ufukara” are cherished classics that are a part of the nation’s cultural legacy.

“Since we began, the industry has undergone a lot of changes,” one band member stated in an interview with The Sauce. From vinyl to streaming services, from analog to digital, it’s been a journey. The significance of appreciating artists’ work hasn’t altered.

Many artists have been impacted by Les Wanyika’s sound, serving as a bridge across generations. In their ongoing efforts to keep up with contemporary music trends, the band has demonstrated their capacity to stay relevant despite the ever changing music market.

The band is accusing Octopizzo, one of Kenya’s most well-known hip-hop musicians, of stealing their songs Barua and Ufukara for his own songs Wamatumbe and Zambe, respectively, without their consent or due attribution.

A band member clarified, saying, “We weren’t notified or consulted about the use of our work.” Fans who are familiar with our sound alerted us to it. Even if our music is still inspiring, it feels disrespectful that no one is paying attention.

Les Wanyika is even more irritated because their music is sampled without their consent, circumventing the moral and legal safeguards for musicians. Another participant remarked, “It’s not just about getting credit—it’s about creating equitable compensation and honoring the work we’ve put into our art.”
Les Wanyika is not the only issue here. All Kenyan artists, both current and former, have rights that need to be upheld. One of the band’s most famous members joked, “What message are we sending to the next generation of musicians if we don’t address this?”

The group made it clear that, if needed, they would look into legal options. “We hope that is not the case. Although a friendly resolution is preferred, if it is not possible, we are ready to defend our rights in court.

The music industry has always struggled with sampling. In remembrance, musicians around the world frequently sample famous songs, however this activity necessitates copyright holders’ consent. Cases like this show the weaknesses in Kenya’s copyright enforcement, which is still in its infancy.

Les Wanyika agreed that sampling can present historic songs to younger listeners, but they insist that it be done in an ethical manner. It’s possible to find beauty in sampling. It makes a link between the past and the present. However, everything needs to be done properly, with respect and appropriate agreements,” one band member said.

“Our music is a reflection of our culture and identity—it’s more than just entertainment,” one band member stated. “We run the risk of it losing its value if we permit its use without responsibility.”

The band hopes that their position will motivate younger musicians to approach sampling with more care and inspire other seasoned musicians to stand up for their rights.

Les Wanyika has stated that he is open to a peaceful resolution and has urged Octopizzo and his management to have a conversation. “The goal here is not to incite hostility. The goal is to establish a standard. So that we can come up with a solution that benefits everyone, we’re hoping Octopizzo’s staff will get in touch,” they stated.