Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
SEPTEMBER 22 is a special date on Zimbabwe’s showbiz calendar and, more importantly, a poignant day for the family, friends and legion of fans of the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi.
The late national hero and music icon religiously marked his birthdays on this particular date, often turning it into an occasion for celebration, reflection and interaction with those around him.
He celebrated through festivities, intimate dinner gatherings with friends and “meet-and-greet” sessions with budding creatives at Pakare Paye, especially when he was not away on international tours.
The former Black Spirits leader had a deep appreciation for the sanctity of life, and encounters with him often left people with valuable insights about music, life and the importance of nurturing others.
Born on September 22, 1952, in Highfield, Harare, Tuku would have turned 74 today.
Sadly, his legacy and life are now being celebrated posthumously.
He lost his battle with complications related to diabetes on January 23, 2019, at Avenues Clinic in Harare.
Seven years after his death, his music remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
His loyal fans and friends continue to adore the iconic singer, whose remarkable career left an indelible footprint on Zimbabwean music and earned him a global following.
However, the empire he built has experienced its share of challenges since his death, raising questions about the difficulties of sustaining a creative institution after the departure of its founder.
At different points, disagreements, anxiety and public drama have threatened to overshadow aspects of the legacy he left behind.
Yet, time has a way of putting such matters into perspective, allowing the music and the larger contribution of the late musician to reclaim centre stage.
His widow, Daisy Mtukudzi, says she still misses her husband.
“September 22 is a special day when we celebrate the life and legacy of my late husband,” she told Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub.
“A lot has happened in the past seven years, and we will cherish the Lord who has stood by us.
“We are moving forward, preaching the good news he always wished for, such as unity, love and care for each other.”
Tuku’s widow revealed that she has learnt to be strong after being called all sorts of names.
“I know I can’t please everyone, but only time will tell, as is the case now. I am one such person who has learnt a lot from Tuku. As a hardworking widow, sometimes I mind my own business, but overall, I have a good heart.
“As we celebrate Tuku’s birthday posthumously, I just want to urge his fans to continue honouring him.”
She added: “As usual, we will honour him in a befitting way. It might not be on his exact birthday (September 22), but just know that there is something coming.
“We have been doing this over the years, and we just do what we can afford.”
Like any institution built around a strong personality, it is difficult for such an establishment to maintain exactly the same character and standards once its proprietor is gone.
Family friend Josh Hozheri, who worked closely with Tuku, described the late music icon as a real superstar.
“When we talk of superstars, Tuku can easily come to mind, considering what he has done for the sector,” said Hozheri.
“Tuku had no camp when it came to the treatment he gave promoters, musicians and other service providers.
“During his birthday celebrations, which ran under the banner Tuku & Friends, everyone was invited. At one point, Pitshou Lumiere came representing rhumba musicians.
“He had major collaborations with the likes of Jah Prayzah, Suluman Chimbetu, Winky D and Garry Tight, among others.
“He was passionate about Pakare Paye Arts Centre, and he used to spend much of his time there when he was not on tour.”
Hozheri also revealed Tuku’s greatest wish to him before he died.
“Tuku wanted me to revive the Women in Jazz Festival, which was his wish before he died.
“He saw potential in ladies, and he was also passionate about developing talent in schools.
“He used to encourage me to promote talent in schools, and I am glad that he saw my potential when we did that with kids from Churchill and Prince Edward High schools,” he added.
Tuku’s eldest daughter, Sandra, who flew into the country last Friday, described her past seven years without Tuku as challenging.
“It has been very difficult. I don’t think you can ever grieve enough. We miss him, but at the same time, we celebrate him,” said Tuku’s daughter.
The Tuku-look-alike daughter, who has learnt to be consistent and always humble, shared how they will honour him.
“We have a private family event, and then on Sunday, the 27th, we are celebrating him at Gava with Selmor and friends.
“We are inviting all to come and enjoy live music as we commemorate the legend.”
With over 60 albums to his credit and multiple awards, Tuku was indeed a creative genius who worked hard to build his empire.
Tuku was not merely a musician; he was an institution whose influence extended beyond the stage.
That legacy remains one of the positives that can be celebrated by the Tuku family and the wider creative sector as the country remembers the musician on what would have been his 74th birthday.
Love him or loathe him, Tuku will always remain a music colossus who saw it all, conquered numerous stages, and left behind a body of work that continues to speak to generations.
