Selmor Mtukudzi, the daughter of Zimbabwe’s late music icon Dr Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi, is stepping firmly into her father’s shoes as custodian of his vast artistic legacy. Through a series of regional concerts and cultural events planned for September, Selmor is not only celebrating Tuku’s memory but also ensuring that his timeless music continues to reach new audiences.
The Afro-jazz singer, who has become a household name in her own right, will headline three major events this month that honour the life and enduring influence of the man widely regarded as Zimbabwe’s greatest musical export.
The commemorative journey begins on Saturday, 13 September 2025, when Selmor takes centre stage at the Hard Rock Café in Johannesburg for Saturday Nights Live: A Celebration of Dr Oliver Mtukudzi’s Life. The show, which kicks off at 6 PM, promises to blend nostalgia with contemporary energy. Alongside Selmor’s headline performance, the line-up includes DJs Mr V, ScoreBeatz, and Irie Dread – names well-known in southern Africa’s club and live entertainment scene. The concert is being marketed as both a musical tribute and a cultural gathering for Zimbabweans living in South Africa, as well as regional fans who grew up with Tuku’s music.
Just a week later, on 21 September, Selmor will perform at the Tozeza Tuku Trail Run hosted at Wingate Boat Club, Lake Chivero. This unique event, organised by Eves Event Management, combines sport, music, and family entertainment. Participants will compete in obstacle challenges across 5km, 10km, and 21.1km courses, reviving the original Tuku trail concept that once attracted thousands. The musical component, headlined by Selmor, ensures that the event doubles as a festival, giving fans a chance to celebrate Tuku’s legacy in a lively, family-friendly environment.
These events are significant not only for fans of Tuku but also for Selmor’s own journey as an artist. Since her emergence in the early 2000s, she has developed into one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable female musicians, known for her soulful voice and thought-provoking lyrics. Alongside her husband, Tendai Manatsa – son of the late music legend Zexie Manatsa – Selmor has graced both local and international stages. Together, they represent a new generation of Zimbabwean musical royalty, carrying forward two of the nation’s most influential family lineages.
Selmor Mtukudzi Revives Tuku Legacy with Regional Tribute Shows
For Selmor, the balance between forging her own career and honouring her father has always been delicate. Early in her career, critics often drew comparisons between her work and Tuku’s iconic sound. Over time, however, she has asserted her independence with songs such as Nguva Yangu and Zvinoita Murudo, while still weaving in elements of her father’s style. Importantly, she has not shied away from performing Tuku’s classics, understanding that for many fans, her voice and stage presence are the closest continuation of his legacy.
Her stewardship of the Tuku brand has, however, not been without challenges. Following Tuku’s passing in January 2019, disputes over his estate and questions around the management of his musical heritage created visible tension within the family. As the daughter of Tuku and his first wife, Melody, Selmor was at times at odds with her stepmother, Daisy Mtukudzi, who initially took charge of the Tuku Music brand. While Daisy sought to protect the family’s interests, many fans and industry observers felt that Selmor, as a performer, embodied the spirit of her father more directly. Over time, she has increasingly been recognised as the natural torchbearer of his musical vision, leading tribute concerts, foundation projects, and initiatives that keep Tuku’s artistry alive.
For the thousands of fans who revered Tuku, Selmor’s role has become more than symbolic. It represents continuity, a bridge between generations, and a reassurance that the values Tuku championed – cultural pride, social consciousness, and artistic excellence – will not fade. Her upcoming September shows underscore this mission, placing her at the forefront of efforts to celebrate Zimbabwe’s most influential musical son on both local and regional stages.
Beyond performance, Selmor has also taken seriously the responsibility of passing Tuku’s legacy to younger audiences. Through her shows and advocacy, she emphasises the importance of cultural heritage, reminding Zimbabweans of the role music plays in shaping identity and unity. This educational dimension adds depth to her performances, transforming them from entertainment into cultural experiences.
As the spotlight turns to Johannesburg and Lake Chivero later this month, Selmor’s journey reflects both personal resilience and artistic determination. She has successfully stepped out of her father’s shadow while embracing the responsibility of carrying his name forward. With each performance, she reinforces her position as both a celebrated artist in her own right and the guardian of a musical legacy that continues to inspire millions.
Through these upcoming events, Selmor Mtukudzi is proving that the story of Tuku is far from over. Instead, it is being rewritten for a new era – with his daughter at the helm, ensuring that the legendary voice of Zimbabwe still echoes across the region and beyond.
Source- ZimEye
