THE late musician Oliver Mtukudzi left a rich catalogue that should stand as a source of inspiration for the industry locally and beyond says, a rising traditional music star, Simbarashe Mtukudzi.
Simbarashe, nephew to the late superstar regarded the multiple award-winning musician’s estate as equivalent to an unexploited, “virgin diamond mine”.
Speaking following the release of his debut eight-track album titled Kotsi, Simbarashe said it was normal to have many people trying to court and emulate Tuku’s work.
Tuku Music was more than a music brand. And like most products it came with a rare flavour and unique value beyond what the ear could hear.
“His music was rich in meaning and substantive to revellers and all other fans,” Simbarashe said.
“Partly these are some of the reason l also found it worthy to embrace this fusion to build on a career in the industry.”
The album was produced by Brighton Chirumbwana at BmC with all the songs having been composed and arranged by Simbarashe.
“In order to preserve the texture created by Tuku, we did our best to make use of instruments like acoustic and thumb piano (mbira) which are synonyms with Tuku Music to spice our music while parading the traditional rhythm,” Simbarashe said.
“It was in the same vein that we sought after the memorable emblem, Dande style and which we then modernised to match the contemporary music.”
Some of the tracks on the album include Murudo, Chisveru ft Wedande, Kutenda, Ndauya, Inzwai and Changamire.
“Ndauya Mwari is a song which talks about a parent who pleads with God to intervene for his child to abstain from social ills such as drug abuse,” Simbarashe said.
"In a nutshell, this educational song explores on the serious effects of drugs especially among the youths.
The musician said considering the changing times, his musical company opted to incorporate technology, using various existing platforms to launch and promote his music.
“The album will be launched in phases, the first being the online or virtual launch on platforms likes Distrokid,” he said.
“Online launches are ongoing and our songs are readily available on Amazon, Spotify, Boom play and YouTube.”
“It's important to point out that our fans' support is needed to make the project a success. This will cheer up the band and the country's music industry.”