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Mathew Masinge
THE late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi was not only one of the greatest music superstars in our country but also a great mentor.
Tuku died on January 23, 2019, aged 66 after losing his battle to diabetes and would have turned 72 on September 2.
Even in his death, Tuku’s musical nostalgia brought back by his students become linked to a certain memory when we watched him while he was still with us.
Local music stars who were mentored by the late national hero have vowed to grant the superstar a befitting inaugural arts festival this weekend.
The Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts (OMIFA) is slated for Pakare Paye Arts Centre this Saturday and Sunday in Norton.
The two-days extravaganza will feature artists from across the music divide, dance, fashion, theatre, arts and crafts all in honour of the late music icon.
Organisers have included his most trusted proteges including Afro fusion crooner Mbeu, Donald Kanyuchi, Sarungano, Watson Chidzomba, Innocent Mupemba and Solution GC to the list of performing artists.
These artists including Gary Tight are products of Tuku Music after gaining their skills at Pakare Paye Arts Centre under the tutelage of the late Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi.
Organisers have dedicated Sunday to performances by all Tuku’s products where each one of them will perform special renditions backed by the Black Spirits Band.
Mbeu who is touted as one of the brightest students said he is reserving all his energy for the festival.
“I learnt a lot from the late superstar and I feel he did a great job in mentoring me as a musician from Norton.
“I owe him a lot and come this Sunday I have something big for the fans,” said Mbeu.
For Sarungano this is his chance to show the world all he learnt from the superstar.
“I am excited to be part of festival and I am living no stone unturned as I honour a great man who treated me like his own son.
“This is a chance for me to shine and I will feel like doing more on stage,” said Sarungano.
Fans are also looking forward to Selmor Mtukudzi’s performance on the opening night.
Selmor, an heir to Tuku music, is one of the key performers at the inaugural event.
A star-studded lineup including superstar Jah Prayzah, Mokoomba, Feli Nandi, Killer T, Bryan K, Gemma Griffiths, Gjembe Monks, Gwevedzi, Mary Anibal and Andy Muridzo has been included.
Online Reporter