Celebrating Tuku: A musical legend

Today, we commemorate what would have been the 73rd birthday of Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi.

Born on September 22, 1952, in Highfield, Zimbabwe, this great musician, whose legacy continues to make an impact, passed away on January 23, 2019, at the Avenues Clinic after bravely battling diabetes.

His birthday will be celebrated posthumously, honoring a life dedicated to music and social change.

Tuku was more than just a musician.

He is widely regarded as one of the most powerful creative forces to emerge from Zimbabwe in the past three decades.

Over his remarkable four-decade career, Tuku amassed an extensive discography, with reports indicating he recorded 67 albums, while other sources suggest numbers exceeding 60 or even 45.

His work encompassed a wide array of studio albums, live recordings, and soundtracks, establishing him as a prominent figure not only in Zimbabwe but across the globe.

Despite achieving international acclaim, Tuku remained deeply committed to the live music scene of his homeland.

He and his band, The Black Spirits, captivated enthusiastic audiences in even the most remote regions of Zimbabwe, embodying the spirit and resilience of their culture.

His debut on the Heads-Up label marked a significant milestone, with the worldwide release of “Nhava” on April 26, 2005, further solidifying his legacy.

As we celebrate Tuku today, we reflect on his extraordinary contributions to music and society, and we continue to be inspired by his passion and commitment to uplifting his community through art.