Last month the continent of Africa lost one of its musical giants with the passing of the legendary Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mtukudzi. One of Zimbabwe’s most recognised musicians, Mtukudzi didn’t limit himself simply to entertaining people but rather used his talent to address social ills facing communities, with many of his older songs talking about the struggles of the Zimbabwean people under white minority rule in the former Rhodesia. In later years Tuku’s music advocated for tolerance and peace, but still spoke of the struggles of the people, particularly those of women and children. Fittingly Tuku was a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and human rights activist, using his popularity for the betterment of society.
Our belated condolences to the friends and family of the great Oliver Tuku Mtukudzi, as well as all of us who have lost one of our greatest musical ambassadors.
Click here to watch Tuku perform with Ladysmith Black Mambazo as they sing Hello my Baby for a promotional video for the City of Durban.
Images courtesy of www.npr.org and www.3-mob.com