“Music is life itself,” explains Zimbabwean guitarist and songwriter, Oliver "Tuku" Mtukudzi. “Here in Africa, music is everywhere—we play it at funerals, we play it at work; there’s always music in our lives.”
Throughout his career, Mtukudzi has been one of the most innovative and creative voices in the African music scene, developing a trademark sound that has long been identified as “Tuku Music.” International audiences have also embraced his music; demonstrating that the language barrier is not much of an issue, as his music has been more and more appreciated outside his native continent. He plays to mixed audiences, and he notices that there’s been a growing presence of Anglo fans during his U.S. tours.
In a live setting, he shows incredible energy on stage by playing guitar, singing and engaging in improvised dances. The music is contagious and quickly gets in your blood. At Town Hall last year, it only took a couple of numbers to compel the audience to rise and join Tuku’s fellow Zimbabweans in the back of the theater (to the annoyance of the security officers, who would have been happier if everyone had stayed put). He’s charming on-stage and is kind enough to explain—in English—the general meaning of his lyrics.
His latest album and DVD, Wonai is a greatest hits collection of sorts and serves as an introduction to his music for new fans. The discs include songs from his albums, live recordings and also his guest appearances with Africa South. One of the highlights is “The Third World Cries Today,” an English-language “We Are The World”-like tune that denounces the hardships that numerous civil wars and corrupt governments have caused to many African nations. Other standouts include a live offering of what is arguably his best-known songs, “Hear Me Lord” and “Isomiso,” in which Tuku duets with Mahube.
Although Mtukudzi’s sound is essentially African, listeners can easily recognize elements of jazz, reggae and other beats in his songs, which welcome Western instruments (electric guitar, keys) alongside African percussive elements. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes for Thursday’s performance—and be ready to dance.
August 31, SOB’s, 204 Varick St. (at Houston St.), 212-243-4940; 8 & 10:30, $25/$28.
