Online Reporter
Trust Khosa and Langalihle Mhiti
UNITED KINGDOM-BASED social worker-turned Afro jazz musician Tich Mutodi firmly believes that Zimbabwean creatives have nothing to prove as they are already making a remarkable global impact.
In an interview with Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub following his festive season visit back home, Mutodi praised icons like Chimurenga guru Thomas “Mukanya” Mapfumo, the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi and Alick Macheso for their influential contributions to music.
He emphasised that local creatives had much to learn from these legends, who shaped the local music industry.
“I am blessed to be a Zimbabwean creative because we are making an impact globally,” he stated.
“Musically, we have a lot to learn from Tuku, Mukanya and Macheso, who are reaching audiences worldwide.
“The trio has penetrated the international music market, and as fellow creatives we need to learn from them. It is never too late for us to learn from them because they have left some footprints hard to ignore.”
Mutodi expressed his excitement upon hearing their music played in top eateries in London and was particularly impressed by Macheso’s songs that are popular with motorists.
“I was happy when I heard Macheso’s music being played by a white motorist in London.
“Sungura used to be underrated yet foreigners love our music, which is commendable,” stated.
He also noted Mukanya’s ability to captivate multi-racial crowds, underscoring the universal appeal of Zimbabwean music.
With the release of his new single titled “Tariyambuka”, Mutodi is optimistic about making his own international breakthrough.
“I started music as a hobby while maintaining a demanding job as a social worker, but I’ve realised I can truly excel in this field as the demand for my music increases.
“Fans in the United Kingdom have been urging me to hold shows and I will certainly consider their requests.”
Mutodi, who released two singles, “Zvakaramba Mwana Wamai Vangu” and “Terera Katatu” last year, is set to release a new album this year.
“I am in the process of releasing a new album this year due to the overwhelming demand for my music. I am also planning to release some videos as part of my new year’s resolutions. I will also do my best to empower fellow creatives back home and those who are itching for an international breakthrough.”
Mutodi, who is also a businessman and community builder in Bikita, Masvingo, has urged Zimbabweans in the diaspora to invest in their rural areas.
“We might be living large in the diaspora, but we must never forsake our roots because we will be buried there when we die. After all, we all belong to the village, and I make sure that I visit my rural home regularly because that’s where I come from.
“During my stay, I made it a point to spend much of my time in the rural areas, where I was doing most of the chores like herding cattle, tilling the land and fetching firewood with other villagers,” he shared.
He also noted that his stint in the rural areas was fruitful as the environment enhanced his creativity. “Life in the rural areas is enjoyable since it opened my mind. I really enjoyed everything during my stay back home. I like the environment because I had peace of mind, as the rural folks showed me genuine love, unlike in the United Kingdom, where people mind their own business.”
He added: “I really enjoyed my holiday since I managed to connect with my friends and former students. Hooking up with old friends is really enjoyable, and I always cherish those moments, to say the least. In life, we need this kind of love and connection, which have made us stronger Zimbabweans.”
Mutodi, who comes from an academic family, firmly believes Ubuntu has shaped him to be a respected creative. “I come from the village where we believe in oneness and respect for the elders. In everything that I do, I make sure that I respect the next person because I can learn something from them. I also make sure that I don’t hurt or disappoint the next person who deserves to be happy in their own right.”
With the first quarter of the year now underway, Mutodi believes he has started this chapter on a high note.
“I am glad we have started the first quarter on a pleasing note after we successfully launched our new single, which has an accompanying video due for release soon.
“The video was shot by Brighton Magaya, and I believe fans will cherish the visuals. Magaya is a talented videographer whose works speak for themselves, and he deserves to be honoured for his amazing work.”
Mutodi, who has vowed to hold a series of live shows in 2026, owes his success to God.
“I am highly favoured, and I am glad that God has blessed me because my music is being embraced by many people. My wish is to continue winning the hearts of many and touching their lives using music, which has become my strongest weapon to reach the hearts of many,” he stated. As he navigates this exciting new chapter in his musical career, Mutodi is dedicated to blending his experiences as a social worker with his artistic expression.
He hopes to use his music not only to entertain but also to raise awareness about social issues affecting his community both in Zimbabwe and abroad.
By sharing his journey, Mutodi aspires to inspire other creatives to pursue their passions and contribute positively to the society.
