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Oliver Mtukudzi

Whinsley Masara, Showbiz Reporter
MUSIC superstar Oliver Mtukudzi, who turned 65 yesterday has invited all his ‘twins’ (those born on the same day as him), especially those born in the same year — September 21, 1952 — to celebrate their birthday at Pakare Paye Arts Centre today.

A massive bash is on tonight in Norton with a star-studded line-up carefully chosen by Tuku himself set to perform.

This year Tuku said he wants to celebrate with his twins from all corners of the country, promising them the best gifts ever.

“Kana wakazvarwa on the same date neni or rather on the same year neni, huya uwone zvandichakuitira gore rino. Vegore rimwe neni ndichavaitira zvidhafu dhafu,” said the icon on Power FM.

He said at this year’s birthday bash, he will not be the main act as he wants to be treated to a fabulous gig from some of his favourite performers.

“This time around, I’ll not perform much like I’ve done on my past birthday celebrations. Instead, I want to be a guest enjoying some good performances from some of my favourite musicians. Usually, I’ve been the main performer on my past birthday celebrations, but this year I want to be hosted,” Tuku said.

A Tuku Music spokesperson said Tuku had invited a lot of artistes including Jah Prayzah, Iyasa, Hitondo, Amayenge (Zambia) and Jah Seed (South Africa) among many others to help him celebrate his big day.

Unlike last year when he celebrated his birthday by launching his album — Eheka Nhai Yahwe, Tuku said this year’s album will be released later this year.
Asked if he had achieved what he sought to do 40 years ago when he began his music career, Tuku said he was not aiming to arrive.

“I’m not aiming to ‘arrive’ in what I do. It’s a continued journey that really doesn’t have an arrival mark per se, but the work that I’ve done with artistes that graduated from Pakare Paye means there is a younger generation that’ll carry on the work even after my time is done.”

Quizzed about his secret to the fitness he possesses on stage, 65 years on, Tuku said it was leading a healthy life and eating well. He said he enjoys eating traditional dishes that have natural nutrients.

The legend who was born and bred in Highfields, Harare said he had to relocate to Norton after failing to secure land for an arts centre — Pakare Paye he wanted to build in Harare. He ended up getting land in Norton, something which prompted him to relocate there with his family. — @winnie_masara