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Gospel music pioneer Baba Mechanic Manyeruke may have officially retired from regular performances, but his enduring appeal still draws fans and promoters reluctant to see him leave the stage.
At 84, the veteran musician remains a highly sought-after performer.
His exceptional talent and captivating stage presence earn him regular invitations to private functions and major events, where he still makes occasional appearances.
Such is his lasting popularity that the pioneer of Zimbabwean gospel music is currently travelling to Australia for a series of high-profile shows, proving that retirement has not fully distanced him from the micro-phone.
“I am at the airport right now, departing for Australia, where a Zimbabwean promoter has invited me to perform in Brisbane and Perth next month,” Manyeruke told the Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“I am equally surprised to note that I still have fans and promoters who require my services abroad.
“I have come to a point where I realise that it is difficult for a musician to fully retire as long as one still possesses the voice and energy to perform on stage.
“As an artiste, you feel compelled to commit yourself and fulfil these engagements by making cameo appearances.”
Due to growing demand, Manyeruke confirmed he has secured further bookings for December.
“After the Brisbane and Perth performances, I will return home for a brief rest before holding two subsequent shows in Melbourne in December, driven by the growing demand for my music.”
The veteran musician also revealed that he recently sought an audience with the President, who urged him to reconsider his decision to step back from the industry.
“Sometime in 2024, I paid a visit to our President at State House, where the leader expressed opposition to my retirement from music.
“He questioned my future plans should I choose to retire, as he believes I still have a great deal to offer the industry,” Manyeruke recalled.
Manyeruke, who belongs to the same generation of Zimbabwean gospel pioneers as the late Jordan Chataika and Freedom Sengwayo, attributed his longevity to divine grace.
“It is only by God’s grace that I remain active and fit, as you know. Alongside divine grace, self-control and love have made me who I am today.”
He also urged the new generation of musicians who look up to him to exercise strict self-control.
“While God can protect us, there are some artistes who are shortening their lives through drug and substance abuse, as well as maintaining multiple partners.
“I have witnessed many talented musicians dying young due to recklessness.”
With more than 60 years in the music industry, Manyeruke stated that focus and dedication to his craft have been central to his legendary status.
“In showbiz, one can easily be distracted by temptation, but it is critical for people to have self-control.
“I encourage creatives to value their work and properly monetise their talents.”
He further challenged local church leaders to ensure gospel musicians are financially compensated for their performances.
“I am one of the longest-serving musicians who have been urging churches to reward gospel musicians who perform at their events.
“Music is a profession where every employee expects to be remunerated.
“At my own church, I made it clear that they should respect my profession through proper payment,” he added.
Regarding international tours, Manyeruke advised contemporary artistes to establish lasting relationships with promoters.
“I have travelled to so many countries that I have lost count, yet those I served years ago still request my services.
“I have performed in Italy, Finland, Germany, Sweden, North Korea and the UK. As for the United Kingdom, it feels very much like home.”
As Manyeruke continues to aim for a quiet retirement, his fanbase remains eager for more, leaving the debate over whether he should finally hang up his microphone far from settled.
