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Oliver Mtukudzi and Hugh Masekela

Godwin Muzari in NYANGA—
It was a full house and Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi had a full package for everyone. The Superstar, as Tuku is affectionately known, gave a sterling performance in front of hundreds of fans that thronged Monclair Resort and Casino in Nyanga on Saturday night. Tuku warmed the chilly night with his hot songs that saw people dancing and singing along.

The experienced master of song did what he knows best and fans went wild with excitement at the executive show.

It was a show to remember and a show that had all ingredients of a memorable outing.

And the outing was punctuated with surprises.

South African musician Hugh Masekela made a surprise appearance at the gig and sent the crowd into frenzy with his stage expertise.

He joined Mtukudzi on stage for the song “Tapera” and the duo gave fans a taste of their upcoming collaboration.

Blowing his trumpet with his usual unmatched prowess, Bra Hugh (Masekela), made a grand entrance.

He went on stage amid wild cheers and introduced himself in a big way when he did Shona lines for a duet that is expected soon.

He sang the Shona lines with confidence and fans cheered him on.

He blew his trumpet in a stylish way and brought the house down with joyful cheers.

He danced to Tuku’s guitars in an impromptu choreography that left many in awe.

Bra Hugh proved why he is rated among top regional performers.

Although it was a brief stage appearance, the South African musician made a strong statement about his artistic ability.

It was a top-drawer complementary act for Tuku, who was also in amazing form during the night.

Tuku led his quartet through a memorable act. His combination with Bra Hugh was the peak of the event.

In an interview with The Herald Entertainment, Bra Hugh said he was happy to be part of the show and optimistic the sampled collaboration would go places.

“We have been working together on a number of projects and the duet we have done is good,” said Masekela.

“We have already recorded the song and they are doing final touches to the production.

“I am hopeful that the song will be exceptional and we will show people how combined effort can make a big impact. I am enjoying very moment here and this place reminds me of many years back when I came to Nyanga. I came with a friend many years ago and I have now come to support a friend at such a big show. It is an amazing experience.”

Bra Hugh said he first came to Nyanga in the mid 1980s when the then music promoter Job Kadengu took him to his farm in the area after the musician’s shows in Harare and Bulawayo.

He said returning to Nyanga was a dream come true and thanked Tuku for giving him a chance to perform with him.

Tuku’s manager and drummer Sam Mataure said the Nyanga show has become an annual platform to mix with executives.

“This show is now an annual event. We are happy to meet many of our fans from Manicaland and various executives that have driven all the way to witness the show. The house is full and this is a sign that wherever we go, fans stand with us. It is a good event indeed.”

Tuku shared the stage with Ammara Brown who stood to the occasion with an energetic performance.

Mixing her father’s (the late Andy Brown) songs and her compositions, Ammara staged an outstanding act.

She left many asking for more after presenting energetic dances that were mainly popular with male fans.

It was a memorable show and organisers promised a bigger event next year when the annual gig returns to the venue.