Tuku's Solo Journey continues

Oliver Mtukudzi

Superstar Oliver Mtukudzi returns to Sports Diner International tomorrow night for a solo performance. He last performed at the joint five years ago and his return is expected to rekindle a party mood among his fans, who for some time have been wondering why he was no longer performing at the popular spot. Talented choreographer and musician Allan Chimbetu will be the supporting act.

Tuku, who turns 60 on September 22, will during the gig introduce a quartet concert, which has slight modifications from the solo acts he has been holding since last year. In a quartet concert, there will be four components on stage and these include an acoustic guitar, which would be played by Tuku, a percussionist, a bass guitarist and a drummer.

It is a common concept internationally, and is not really new to Tuku, who often uses it when playing at weddings or private functions. His show comes hard on the heels of his performance at the just ended Harare International Festival of the Arts where he dazzled the multitudes of fans with a polished one-hour gig.

A prolific musician with 60 albums to his name, composer of more than three movie soundtracks, a contributor to Mahube, Southern Africa’s “super-group”, an actor too, and those who are planning to attend the show, know that they will not be disappointed with his act. He has mastered the act of entertaining, using his music, stage confidence, well-choreographed performances and his signature tune — the traditional cough — to endear himself to his fans.

What makes his performances outstanding is his vocal ability, which when coupled by with his acoustic sound, ignites a revelling mood among many a music fan. It is not uncommon to see fans at any of his shows, either young or old, swaying to the beat of “Tozeza Baba”, or one of his many hit tracks from years gone by. 

He also has got several classical hits that are tailored-made for a solo show.

On the other hand, dendera musician Allan Chimbetu is no small fish when it comes to live shows.

Tried and tested from the time he was with the late dendera exponent Simon Chimbetu, Allan is an uncelebrated hero, who is blessed with a good voice and can play both the lead and rhythm guitar with ease.

Allan has released several albums since he parted ways with his nephew Sulumani.

His collaboration with Mtukudzi on this show is expected to rejuvenate his waning fortunes, following a series of squabbles that threatened to tear his band apart. Show organiser Barbara Chikosi, known in the entertainment circles as Mama Red Rose, was upbeat about the show. “We are already anticipating a good turnout, judging by the response we have been getting since we started advertising the show,” she said. Herald