OppiKoppi recently announced their inclusion of Oliver Mtukudzi as a Tribute Artist this August. The Zimbabwean Music Artist joins fellow musical legends Vusi Mahlasela, the late Hugh Masekela and Mafikizolo who have been honoured in the past. Oliver Mtukudzi makes history as the first non-South African to be acknowledged at the festival which has been awarding honourees of South African music since 2010.
Now in its soon to be late 20s; OppiKoppi has been making some changes which would explain their decision to break the mould. More recently just as they announced their Brenda Fassie inspired theme ‘Nomakanjani’ and the dusty crew shifted fest dates back to August post the Rocking the Daisies collaboration in 2017.
In a statement, the organizers described Oliver Mtukudzi as a deserving stalwart of African music:
“Oliver Mtukudzi merits double helpings of love, thank you’s and legendary status belt-driven accolades. This year’s OppiKoppi tribute artist started performing in Zimbabwe in 1977. That’s 41 years of Tuku Tunes. His husky voice has become the most recognised to emerge from Zim and onto the international scene and he has earned a devoted following across Africa and beyond.”
Whether the festival will continue to honour African or International Artist going forward; one thing is for sure; Oliver Mtukudzi has certainly earned this! With over 60 albums and over four decades of great music. Talk about LEGENDARY!
OppiKoppi kicks off from the 9-11 of August in Northam, Limpopo. We’ll be there Nomakanjani 😉
