Celebrating a legend

Windhoek residents will officially be saying goodbye to legendary Zimbabwean artist Oliver Mtukudzi next week Friday as local artists will be hosting a tribute concert. This week, tjil caught up with singer Slickartie who had personal encounters with Tuku, as he was affectionately known as, and speaks about the kind of person he was and the legacy he leaves behind. The concert will be at the Warehouse Theatre and artists such as Ashwyn Mberi, Elemotho, Jackson Wahengo and Ras Sheehama will join Mashura on stage with Slickartie. tjil (j): What was your first encounter with Oliver Mtukudzi like?Slickartie (S): My first encounter with Oliver was at my uncle's wedding. I met him again at a book cafe where he had a gig. I had been hearing him on the radio ever since I was kid; I was raised by his music then met him in person later.t: From who Oliver Mtukudzi was, what would you say is the role of an artist in society?S: The role of an artist in the community is to be the voice of the voiceless, to speak for those who are not listened to. An artist has a very big role in society and one has to take this seriously because you have to address problems and teach morals through your art. Oliver ended up being a national hero because of his teachings.t: What lessons do you treasure from him?S: Him being a mentor. Tuku never saw himself as a superstar, he was forever teaching and when he saw young artists doing well he always gave free advice. The memory I will always cherish was when I opened at his concert at Zoo Park and having to sing before he came on stage was very special. It so happened that I finished and people wanted me back on stage and he was already standing behind with his guitar but he said I should continue. That was phenomenal. t: Why should anyone come out to the concert? S: Who wouldn't want to come celebrate his music? The show is free because he was a free man, his music didn't have a border so why not give him a beautiful send-off and celebrate his wonderful music with his fans? His music will stay for generations to come so I believe if anyone loved Tuku they will come.June Shimuoshili

Celebrating a legend

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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Celebrating a legend

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-19

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