By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru, Princess of Harare
Birmingham, United Kingdom ( News of The South) – Last night’s grand finale show turned into a moment of emotional resonance and celebration as Zimbabwean songstress Selmor Mtukudzi shared the stage with the legendary Dr. Thomas Mapfumo, in what became a deeply touching and memorable performance.
Selmor, daughter of the late music icon Oliver Mtukudzi, delivered a vibrant and spirited set, leaving the crowd energized and inspired. But beyond the dazzling musical showcase, it was her heartfelt exchange with Dr. Mapfumo backstage that captivated the hearts of many.
Taking to social media after the show, Selmor revealed an intimate family story that she was able to share with the Chimurenga music pioneer. She recounted the emotional final moments of her father-in-law, the late music legend Zexie Manatsa, who passed away in early 2022. Surrounded by family in his hospital room, Manatsa spent his last minutes reminiscing about his years in music—including a poignant moment when he began singing a song he had co-written with Dr. Mapfumo.
“The whole family was sitting around him in hospital talking, and mdara started singing a song they wrote together with Dr Thomas back in the day. He passed away just about 15 minutes later surrounded by family,” Selmor wrote.
Sharing that memory with Dr. Mapfumo, Selmor said, was an honour she deeply cherished. “It was such an honour to share the stage with him and to tell him about how my father-in-love spoke of him with such warmth in his final moments.”
The interaction added a powerful emotional layer to what was already a historic night in Zimbabwean music—a convergence of generational talent, heritage, and mutual respect. Selmor’s performance itself was described by attendees as “brilliant,” “energetic,” and a “perfect tribute to Zimbabwe’s rich musical legacy.”
Dr. Thomas Mapfumo, a towering figure in Zimbabwe’s cultural history and a pioneer of the Chimurenga sound, also delivered a performance that reminded all in attendance of his enduring influence.
With music that bridges generations and stories that connect legends, last night’s event was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of Zimbabwean identity, memory, and the unbreakable bonds of family, friendship, and music.
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