Danisa Masuku Showbiz Correspondent
Gary Tight – son to Willom Tight seems to be like wine maturing with age as he staged a classic performance at the late Sam Mtukudzi’s commemorations in Bulawayo. The celebrations held at the Large City Hall last Friday were part of a number of events lined up throughout the country in honour of Sam who died on March 15, 2010 after being involved in a car accident.
Born on April 1, 1988, Sam, a talented vocalist and guitarist shot to stardom with hit songs Pasirino, Mamureva and Amai from the album Cheziya. Always seen as one to carry on the baton from his father, Oliver, Sam had his life shortened at a very young age.
Though he had a short stint in the music industry, Sam managed to leave an indelible mark, one which his parents saw fit to celebrate. The first celebrations were held at Tuku’s Pakare Paye Arts Centre two months ago and moved to Bulawayo with Gary singing renditions of Sam’s songs.
Backed by Tuku’s band, the Black Spirits, a confident Gary took to the City Hall stage with confidence and proved his artistry. He churned out Sam’s hit songs Pasirino, Mamureva, Chi Chanetsa? (a remix to Tozeza Baba), Ndakurawani, Ndinotenda and Mweya, much to the crowd’s amusement.
Taking over from Gary was Jeys Marabini who sampled songs from his latest offering Thula Sana. His performance showed he had sharpened his musical skills.
Introducing Tuku to the stage was Reverend Dignity Takaendesa of Methodist with a prayer. The legend’s role was simple, to put icing on the cake, and he did just that with a sterling performance, proving why he is a superstar.
Tuku’s track Shamiso was one of the most popular on the night as fans sang and danced along. The artist who this year celebrated 40 years in the music industry, took his Bulawayo fans down memory lane when he played yesteryear hits such as Mutavara and Mutserendende.
Speaking after the show Tuku said he was impressed by the show attendance, thanking revellers for their continued support. “I was impressed by the turn out especially considering that our people are facing financial challenges,” Tuku said.
He said Gary was maturing each day and had excelled in Bulawayo. “Gary performed well here than he did in Harare. I’m glad the fans accepted and appreciated his talent since it was his first time to perform in Bulawayo.”
Revellers parted with $10 to celebrate the life of Sam.