In the world of music, there are wannabes, one-hit wonders and people whose music we can tolerate. But above all these, there is a higher order. We call them the superstars – those who were born to do it and whose influence transcends race, generation and nationality. The superstars are a rare breed but they are no myth. They are out there.
When we talk about African music with international appeal, it’s almost impossible to have a conversation about superstars without talking about Zimbabwean legend, Oliver Mtukudzi. Band leader of the formidable Black Spirits, Mtukudzi, fondly known as Tuku, has been in the game since the 1970’s and is a household name on the continent, even in countries where his native Shona language isn’t understood. Tuku has traveled the world and has a whopping 56 albums to his name. How’s that for work ethic and consistency?!
Now over 60 years old, this cultural icon shows no signs of slowing down. He is the founder of Pakare Paye, an arts centre in Harare, Zimbabwe. The aim of the centre, according to its official Facebook page, is to “develop and nurture young talent in various practical artistic endeavors particularly music, dance, drama, poetry and storytelling”.
In March 2010, Tuku lost his only son Sam in a tragic car crash. The death of Sam, who was a musical sensation in his own right and viewed by many as the heir to his legacy, affected Tuku in a huge way but he didn’t let it kill the music. He later released Sarawoga, an album dedicated to and featuring songs co-written with Sam, to much anticipation and excitement from fans. Today on our Big Up Africa feature, we salute an entertainer extraordinaire, a master of perseverance and resilience, a songwriter and social commentator par excellence and a role model to the youth of our continent!
The video below, courtesy of Waza Africa, gives us a glimpse of Tuku as he talks about how he dealt with the death of his son.