Top musicians billed for Tuku tribute concert

WITH the sole aim of paying tribute to the late Oliver Mtukudzi, ‘A list’ Namibian musicians have teamed up for a tribute concert at Windhoek’s Warehouse Theatre tomorrow, 8 February.

Elemotho, Ras Sheehama, Jackson Wahengo and Slickartie featuring Mashura, among others, will grace the tribute concert themed ‘Celebrating the Life of a Legend’. The event is scheduled to start at 20h00.

“How else could Tuku – as he is affectionately known by his legion of fans dotted around the world including his self-declared number one fan in the world, South African president Cyril Ramaphosa – have been celebrated? A man who had international collaborations with the likes of South Africa’s Ringo, Hugh Masekela, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, and Winky D, whose song seems to be a prophecy on how people will feel upon hearing the news of his departure,” spokesperson for the event, Gordon Jay, said.

Host Ashwyn Mberi has indicated that the entertainers will keep fans on their feet and they expect quite a large turnout as the concert is free of charge.

Many Namibians remember Tuku as he came to Namibia on more than one occasion. One of his last performances in Namibia was alongside Slickartie of ‘Mwanangu Usaende’ fame at Zoo Park Amphitheatre in Windhoek.

Jay adds that the event is a “must attend”.

“Not only because it is free, but because no one can attach value to what he did for the entertainment industry in Africa and around the world.”