Tuku and the Black Spirits – just one night in Sydney
Tuku
Oliver Mtukudzi, or “Tuku”, as he is best known to his fans, will be performing in Parramatta this coming Friday November 8.
Ambassador Oliver Mtukudzi was born in Harare, Zimbabwe and recorded his first album in 1975. He was crowned Music Ambassador by the Government of Zimbabwe. He is arguably the most powerful creative force to emerge from Zimbabwe in the past four decades. He is a legendary world music icon whose skills encompass singing, songwriting and finger-tipped, soul-filled guitar playing.
Distinguished by his deep, gravelly voice that seems to come from the depths of his spirit and a huge talent for writing songs that reflect on the daily life and struggles of the people of his homeland, Mtukudzi can rightly be said to be not only Zimbabwe’s, but one of Africa’s greatest musical artists.
“Tuku music” has evolved into something quite distinct. His hypnotic rhythms are undeniably contagious, inspiring his audience to dance along with him, but it is his lyrics that have captured the hearts of people everywhere. The words to his songs, performed mostly in the Shona language of Zimbabwe as well as English, deal with social and economic issues. His use of figurative language to express his message makes him able to speak to to people from all places. Carefully balancing compelling rhythms and accessible melodies with insightful lyrics, Tuku has built a vast body of work that is politically and socially relevant, yet entertaining and accessible to a worldwide audience.
Tuku and the Black Spirits will be in Australia for four nights of “Tuku Music” in November. The legend has under his belt a career that has spanned for almost four decades and produced 61 albums, most of them best-sellers. The only Sydney show will be in Parramatta. A lifetime opportunity to come and sample new songs from Tuku’s latest masterpiece, “Sarawoga”.
Listen for Mtukudzi’s music here this week on PJ’s Dial Afrika, Wednesday 9am.
When: Friday 8 November
Where: The Roxy Hotel, 69 George Street, Parramatta 2150
Cost: $54
Bookings: Phone 9687 4221 or Sydney Tickets at www.oztix.com.au
