Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Sweden-based traditional music exponent, researcher, and writer, Luckson “ManLuckerz” Chikutu, is back home for the 46th Uhuru celebrations.
Over the years, he has celebrated with the Zimbabwean community in Uppsala — a city near Stockholm known for Uppsala University, founded in the 15th century.
“It feels good to be back home just ahead of the Uhuru celebrations, and I am ready to hold a series of interviews with the local press.
“I have been longing for this opportunity, and I want to be recognised on home soil,” said the 24th National Arts Merit Award nominee for the Outstanding Artist in Diaspora.
ManLuckerz, who — like a proverbial prophet — does not have “honour” on homeland, is determined to change that narrative with his upcoming album titled “Nhinhi,” set to be launched on local radio stations on April 15.
In Sweden, the launch will take place on April 22.
The album features six tracks: the title track “Nhinhi,” “Babie,” “Chinyaride,” “My Roots,” “Rongeka,” and “Hama.”
When asked what makes the album unique compared to his previous releases, ManLuckerz said: “This is not any different from the others. Controlling our identity, culture, and character as Zimbabweans is the album’s main theme. I don’t make music in a different way.
“However, people’s perspectives on life have changed because of the times, contemporary problems, and emerging technologies. The advice and message are direct, not indirect.”
On the themes addressed in the album, the Gutu-bred singer said it is “pregnant with meaning.”
“The album ‘Nhinhi’ discusses love, understanding, culture, and customs to keep and cherish, as well as avarice and bad behaviours to avoid. We are individuals with diverse personalities and lifestyles. However, for us to be at the centre of harmony — filled with love and affection — we need to advise each other well. We must treat each other with complete respect and strive to live in harmony.
“This album explains, counsels, and cautions both young and old. It offers special advice to my dear brothers and sisters.”
Defending his decision to launch the album on local radio stations, ManLuckerz still believes in the power of radio.
“Everyone has the right to listen to these public radio programmes, whether they are in a city or a rural area. Even if you don’t have internet access, you can still listen to National FM and Radio Zimbabwe in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I observed that it is simple to get the message or warning in front of as many people as possible.
“I hope that most listeners of National FM and Radio Zimbabwe will hear the message.”
The singer, who spent 18 months working on the album, expressed confidence that fans will embrace it.
“It is hoped that fans will learn about our everyday lives as they listen to the customs and traditions. Much of it also applies to other events in our society. Let’s take this record as a lesson. The album ‘Nhinhi’ teaches us that children/people are not what we want them to be — let’s take a practical look at this and advise from relatives and friends.
“May the profound traditional music of Zimbabwe be able to move people. Individuals will have mental control and be able to deliberate before behaving. Nhinhi album kwandiri ndo pasi chigare music yeZimbabwe.”
Besides “Nhinhi,” ManLuckerz has also produced a rich catalogue of music including “Macharangwanda,” “Pandiri,” “Madhinga,” “Gutu,” “My Roots,” “Baba NaMai Molly,” “Ndundu-Madhaiza,” and “Rongeka.”
As a writer and researcher, he has published a book titled “FlashBack Identitet” (2017), which was later translated into English as “FlashBack Identity” (2019). He has also recorded over 50 videos documenting his culture.
Preaching Ubuntu and promoting culture remains his top priority.
Mathew Masinge