Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
TOP events management guru Taka Mashonganyika says Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi sacrificed a lot for him to eventually achieve legendary status.
Mashonganyika, who was involved in Tuku’s journey behind the scenes, said his greatness was achieved through resilience, professionalism and hard work.
Tuku succumbed to complications from diabetes on January 23, 2019, at the age of 66.
He would have turned 73 on September 22 this year and was poised to celebrate half-a-century as a professional singer.
“Tuku was not only a family friend but someone who earned his status from resilience, hard work and professionalism,” he said.
“I had known him for a long time, from his early days chasing fame to his international breakthrough that we are celebrating today.
“While we are celebrating his life posthumously, it’s important to remember that his journey was fraught with challenges.
“He faced ridicule, bullying and exploitation by some promoters, yet he never gave up.”
Mashonganyika is part of the team which is organising a bash to celebrate Tuku’s adventure in music.
The event will feature performances by the likes of Feli Nandi, Killer T and Baba Harare, along with contributions from Bernard Betera and the Black Spirits.
The celebrations will be held tomorrow at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton.
“Like I indicated, we won’t let this milestone pass unnoticed because Tuku was and still remains a national treasure,” said Mashonganyika.
“For those of us who know him, we could write books about his life, but for now, we are celebrating him as a legend.
“Despite his death in 2019, budding musicians continue to receive free training at the centre (Pakare Paye), as was Tuku’s wish.
“Additionally, the centre hosts conferences, weddings, and offers accommodation, which gives us every reason to celebrate him as a legend.”
He added:
“Tuku was never in competition with anyone but his works speak for themselves both on and off the stage.
“As a musician, he experienced both sold-out gigs and paltry crowds, which gave him the courage to remain steadfast in an industry where it is not easy to make a breakthrough.
“He used to joke about how he once played in an empty hall, and how one of his instrumentalists fell sick due to bad weather.
“He was never shy to move forward after experiencing all these challenges in life,” he said.
Tuku was declared a national hero and was buried at his Madziwa homestead.
Mashonganyika also urged “feuding” parties to put aside their differences and celebrate Tuku’s legacy.
“The idea to commemorate Tuku’s 50th anniversary arose from the desire to unite his family, children, and everyone who knew him before his passing.
“We are here today celebrating him because we continue to dance to his music,” said Mashonganyika.
With over 60 albums, Tuku left behind a rich catalogue of songs that will defy the test of time.
