By Zuko Komisa
Zimbabwean musician Oliver ‘Tuku’ Mutukudzi has passed away at 66 year old. It has been reported that he had been struggling with his health for over a month.His passing came exactly a year since the passing of his dearest friend, South African jazz musician Hugh Masekela at the age of 78 who had succumbed to a long battle with prostate cancer.
“Tuku”, as he was fondly referred, throughout his illustrious career, managed to release 58 albums. All with his signature sound that many have grown to love across the world. Born in a family of six, Oliver grew up in Highfield, in the Zimbabwean capital of Harare, where his interest in music was sparked.
He had performed across the world including the UK, US and Canada to an ever growing international audience. He will be remembered for his music that struck a cord with so many. Those who may not have known the meaning of the message can agree, that the authenticity of the emotion in his skillful reverberating voice was felt.
Tributes and condondolences have been expressed by many Afropolitans across social media.
Thank you for the music #RipOliverMtukudzi ??? pic.twitter.com/Uj3vbR5qEv
— Vuyolwethu Ngcukana (@vuyomse) January 23, 2019
Tuku? RIP to a most humble and incredible musician whose music was universally loved #RipOliverMtukudzi it’s almost a cruel joke as we commemorate a year of Bra Hugh’s passing today
— KingTha (@thandiswamazwai) January 23, 2019
Sad to learn of the passing of yet another legend. Thank you for the music Ntate Oliver Mtukudzi. #RIP#RipOliverMtukudzi #OliverMtukudzi pic.twitter.com/eSZPgxpJBp
— ProVerb (@ProVerbMusic) January 23, 2019
Highlights of my career in two images. Can’t believe I had the privilege to know you and make music with you. #RipOliverMtukudzi pic.twitter.com/rRomeXSBsp
— J’Something™ (@jsomethingmusic) January 23, 2019
Together again #ripolivermtukudzi here seen with son, The late #SamMtukudzi ?♀️?♀️? pic.twitter.com/A1DjzrAzyN
— Dj Brian Rikhotso?? (@Djbrianrikhotso) January 23, 2019
“It is music and dancing that make me at peace with the world.” ~ Nelson Mandela #RIPOliverMtukudzi pic.twitter.com/ZrdwzCLBNe
— Mzilikazi wa Afrika (@IamMzilikazi) January 24, 2019
Zorora Murugare. Zvakanaka ??#OliverMtukudziRIP pic.twitter.com/mBEH9PSG1t
— #TOS4 Out Now (@tboseZA) January 23, 2019



