Musician Selmor Mtukudzi was overcome with emotion during her performance at the inaugural Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival, leading her to break down and walk off stage. The festival, held at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton, honors the legacy of her father, the legendary Zimbabwean musician Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, who passed away in 2019. Coinciding with Tuku’s birthday on September 22, the event is themed “DAIRAI, SABELANI, ANSWER!” and aims to celebrate his contributions to music and culture while promoting community unity.
Despite initially being omitted from the lineup—which sparked a public backlash and calls for a boycott—Selmor was later added after clarifications from Tuku’s widow, Daisy Mtukudzi, regarding communication issues. During her heartfelt set, Selmor began with a rendition of her father’s song “Changu Chiiko.” As she performed, tears streamed down her face.
She expressed gratitude to the audience for their support during a challenging time, saying, “I’ve wanted to be on this stage for so many years. If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here.” Overcome with emotion, Selmor struggled to continue, reflecting on her father’s legacy and the significance of the moment. Her husband, Tendai Manatsa, and fellow band members rushed to comfort her. In a poignant farewell, Selmor thanked the audience, dropped the mic, and left the stage, visibly moved by the tribute to her father’s enduring impact.
In other news – DJ Sumbody’s family heartbroken as police abandon search for killers
The family of late South African businessman and entertainer DJ Sumbody, whose real name was Oupa Sefoka, has expressed deep disappointment following reports that police have ended their search for his killers. DJ Sumbody was tragically shot and killed in a hail of bullets on November 20, 2022.
According to a source speaking to ZiMoja, the investigation has reportedly gone cold, leading authorities to classify the case as null. Read More