No other artist in the history of our great Zimbabwe was loved and commanded respect more than Oliver "Tuku" Mtukudzi. At the time of his death, Oliver had done so much for music in the country and his name is far more popular than politicians and politics in the republic. In a popularity poll, Tuku he would have been placed high up in scores and considered an integral part in the edification and preservation of music and its sad that there is no real effort in making his life, work and contributions to the country's music celebrated and regarded with much more interest, just the same way he treated his artistry.
I agree with the so many notions as expressed on twitter as millions remembered the crooner on the 23rd of January. Particularly this tweet from Lee Dzenga. Spot on my brother.
I think we deserve a time every year where we can dress up, perform and spread the love in the spirit of Oliver Mtukudzi and what he embodied. There is no reason why we should not and I certainly feel that it is impossible to allocate a day or two into remembering him. He certainly deserves more than just mere mentions on news platforms but deserves a holiday, street name, town or even a guitar named after him. More can be done to honour this great musician and give our children the mindset that they too can be great in life if they follow the ways and the dedication that Tuku had.
So I had always wanted to an Oliver Mtukudzi special, this one is my own thank you for the beautiful music he gave us, the impact he had to a society riddled with problems and a light to so many individuals, musicians or not.
Take a listen to it here.
Comments