Harare — Superstar Oliver Mtukudzi's former wife, Melody, still has respect for the music icon and prefers being referred to as his first wife.

Referring to the artiste as Nzou, after his totem, the mother of Sandra and Selmor Mtukudzi, declared:

"Ini ndini Mai Mtukudzi. Ndakaita muchato mukuru kuGwanzura wakaridzwa naVaManatsa asi nhasi ndinoda kutenda Nzou vandakaita navo vana ava.

"As for Tendai, mukuwasha wangu, I am also happy for him because he is following in the footsteps of his parents."

Melody was speaking at the launch of Tendai Manatsa and Selmor's new albums recently.

Melody continued: "Iko zvino yava nguva yangu yokuti ndimbotaurawo. Ndinoda kuti vanhu vazive kuti hapana mwana akafanana naaNzou saSandra (Tuku's eldest daughter). And for that I want to thank Nzou for giving me these two beautiful daughters," she said to wild applause.

But one would be forgiven for thinking that Melody was the eldest among her children as she still looks young.

She could be seen giving motherly hugs to her daughters as if they had not seen each other for years.

They made merry and together with the Manatsas congratulated their children for achieving more than what most achieve in a lifetime.

Although the Manatsas paid roora, the marriage had not been artistically blessed until three weeks ago.

Melody, together with Baba naAmai Manatsa blessed Tendai and Selmor's musical journey.

Sadly, Tuku was absent.

He was in Botswana and Melody felt Tuku's presence would have made the event more colourful.

The function however, went ahead at the Manatsas' home in Westgate where the album launch took place.

The youthful couple, which resides at the Manatsas' family home, thrilled fans with an amazing performance of the song Inini Newe -- off Selmor's album.

Amai Manatsa could not hide her joy.

"What I am only praying for is for the two to remain level-headed because nyika yave nemazino.

"You see, Oliver and Zex have managed to live for years because they have been punctual and committed. Commitment is also another piece of advice that I would like to give to this couple if they wish to prosper."

"Ndiyani asingadewo zvakadai. The young couple has been blessed and we are happy having been around when they are launching their careers.

"One thing that makes us the happiest people is that the two have followed in the footsteps of their parents."