ZIMBABWEAN music legend Oliver” Mtukudzi, has died. He was
ZIMBABWEAN music superstar Oliver Mtukudzi has died.
He was 66.
According to reports from Harare, he passed on Wednesday afternoon at the private Avenues Clinic in the capital.
Today we said goodbye to a true patriot. Oliver Mtukudzi, your voice has given us comfort during difficult times, and will remain with us for posterity,” President Emmerson Mnangagwa said.
Opposition MDC leader Nelson Chamisa said on Twitter; “To me a father and counsellor. To the nation, an advisor and ambassador to generations.
“To the world, a peace icon, a bundle of talent, calabash of wisdom. You gave your all to us all. You consoled, counselled and entertained Zimbabwe and beyond. You will be sorely missed Samanyanga!”
Temba Mliswa, the member of parliament for Norton Constituency – Tuku’s home town – extended his condolences to the Mtukudzi family adding that he is applying to the President’s office for the musician to be granted national hero status for his immense contribution to the arts industry.
Obert Gutu, vice president of the opposition MDC party added; “It’s absolutely devastating and extremely sad! An icon has fallen!
This is not only a loss to the Mtukudzi family, it also a loss to Zimbabwe, to Africa and indeed, to the whole of humanity.
“Through his music, Tuku touched millions of hearts around the globe. He was an immensely talented composer, with a husky and inimitable voice.
“He sang about love, about social justice and about the trials and tribulations of human existence.
“Tuku is a national hero. Anyway, heroes don’t die! Legends don’t die! They simply go home to rest! Rest in Power, Samanyanga!”
Fans mourned “a great loss” across the world, sharing Tuku’s music and pictures on social media pages.
Born 22 September in 1952, Mtukudzi began his music career in 1977, singing alongside Thomas Mapfumo in the Wagon Wheels band.
With a music career that spanned over thirty years, Tuku has serenaded fans across all five continents and attracting adoring fans worldwide.
The ‘Neria’ hitmaker has over 60 albums to his name and won several national and international prestigious awards.
He was also an actor known for his appearance in the films; Jit (1990), Neria (1993) and Zimbabwe-Respect for Africa (1994).
He is survived by his wife, Daisy, four children and two grandchildren.
66.
