Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Superstar Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi may have been laid to rest at his Madziwa homestead in Mashonaland Central province in 2019, but his spirit continues to thrive.
After losing his battle with diabetes, Tuku left a huge void that is hard to fill, but the positive legacy he left behind is still being celebrated.
The late music icon and national hero has left behind a remarkable legacy, with themed events becoming a staple on the entertainment calendar.
In addition to the Tuku Half Marathon, the Tuku Trail Marathon and his birthdays, a significant milestone will be celebrated on December 5 — the 50th anniversary of his illustrious career.
It was a roller-coaster of a career, during which he nearly gave up but remained firm and resolute.
Although this milestone will be observed posthumously, Tuku’s Music Advisory Board member and family friend Taka Mashonganyika emphasised that the 50th anniversary is ultimately a celebration of Tuku’s enduring legacy.
He urged “feuding” parties to put aside their differences and celebrate Tuku’s legacy in unison.
“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,” Mashonganyika stated.
“Tuku became a professional musician in 1975, before our independence, and he represented Zimbabwe globally with distinction, making him one of the most sought-after stars across the continent.”
“We are here today celebrating him because we continue to dance to his music. It’s unfortunate that we now reflect on some of his major achievements posthumously,” he added.
Mashonganyika, who maintained a close relationship with Tuku’s family, revealed that the gathering on December 5 at Pakare Paye is not a commercial venture but a heartfelt tribute to the legendary musician.
“As someone who used to host Tuku’s birthday parties and significant musical milestones, I felt we were not doing enough to honour him. A legend and national hero like Tuku deserves to be celebrated uniquely.
“The best way to achieve this is through a special occasion where people can come together and reconnect.”
He also expressed the hope that fellow musicians who are free on that day will join in to celebrate and mingle with others.
The Harare businessman believes it is never too late to safeguard Tuku’s legacy.
“As I mentioned earlier, since we are still singing and dancing to his music, we cannot allow that legacy to fade without proper care. I am determined to ensure that my friend is happy wherever he is. We should not tarnish his memory over issues that can easily be rectified,” he emphasised.
Mashonganyika, who was a close confidante of Tuku, also shared that the former leader of Black Spirits had always believed in his ability to organise large events under the Tuku Music banner.
“We didn’t have a specific formula when we organised those shows, but we were confident that fans would come. Tuku was never worried about poor attendance; he trusted us to run the show, which is why we made a name together,” he recalled.
Together with veteran music promoter Josh Hozheri, drummer Sam Mataure, and the late Watson Chodzomba, Mashonganyika played a key role in making Tuku’s life easier by organising well-attended shows.
Six years after Tuku’s passing, the landscape has changed, but Mashonganyika is determined to alter the narrative.
He firmly believes that Tuku is an icon who should be cherished for generations to come.
Like Bob Marley, who is still remembered in Jamaica 45 years after his death, Mashonganyika believes the same can be said for Tuku, a peace-loving and down-to-earth entertainer.
While it is a bitter reality that Tuku’s Golden Jubilee will be marked posthumously, the organisers are committed to transforming their grief into a celebration of love and the artistic legacy that Tuku left behind.
