Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Internationally-acclaimed crooner Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi died in 2019, but his legacy continues to thrive.
This legacy is built on a solid foundation of sacrifice and hard work spanning half a century.
Tuku launched his career in 1975 amidst the liberation struggle, a time when mobility was a major setback for Africans in Zimbabwe.
Despite facing numerous obstacles in finding employment — leading him to compose the poignant song “Dzandimomotera” — he embodied resilience, hard work and consistency.
Like many other musicians from humble beginnings, Tuku persevered through years of toil before achieving stardom in the late 90s.
Tuku, who could have turned 73 this year, stood as a musical colossus, having performed on every continent around the globe.
Sadly, his golden jubilee as a professional singer, influencer and mentor will be celebrated posthumously on December 5 at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton.
The event features notable performances from reliable stars Feli Nandi, Killer T and Baba Harare, along with contributions from Bernard Betera and the Black Spirits, as well as other artistes associated with the Pakare Paye Arts Centre. This grand celebration honours Tuku’s remarkable legacy and life.
Taka Mashonganyika, a close family friend and long-time supporter of Tuku’s journey, emphasised that 50 years was a huge milestone deserving recognition.
“I have known him for a long time, from his early days chasing fame to his international breakthrough that we are celebrating today,” he shared.
“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, along with Josh Hozheri and Samson Mataure, previously hosted themed parties for Tuku. He noted that the upcoming Golden Jubilee celebration for this national hero is a fitting tribute to his legacy before the year ends.
“Like I indicated, we won’t let this milestone pass unnoticed because Tuku was and still remains a national treasure. For those of us who know him, we could write books about his life, but for now, we are celebrating him as a legend.
“On that note, we are calling on his old and new fans to come and join us for this milestone. All the artistes will be available,” he emphasised.
The affable businessman, who has a soft spot for events management, praised Tuku for leaving behind a centre that still serves its purpose.
He stated that Tuku’s achievements will take ages to surpass.
“Tuku was never in competition with anyone, but his works speak for themselves both on and off 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 for 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 pointed out. After losing his battle with diabetes, Tuku was declared a national hero and was buried at his Madziwa homestead.
The late music icon and national hero has left behind a remarkable legacy, with themed events becoming a staple of 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.
