Harare — SUPERSTAR Oliver Mtukudzi turns 57 today and to celebrate his lifetime achievements, he has lined up two gigs featuring some of his friends in music.

The first Birthday Bash tonight starts at 7 O'Clock at Pakare Paye Arts Centre in Norton. On the bill are Munya Mataruse, Sam Mtukudzi, Mbare Trio, Bob Nyabinde, Steve Makoni and The Black Spirits.

On Sunday, the family show runs from 12 noon until 6pm and the line-up includes a mixed bag of performing artistes, among them Selmor Mtukudzi, Willom Tight, Victor Kunonga and Chiedza Chevatendi.

Diva Mafunga, who is one of Tuku's favourites, will feature for the first time at the bash while Chiedza Chevatendi, a gospel choral group, would also be the newcomers on the playlist.

Fresh from his United Kingdom tour, Tuku who arrived in the country early this week enjoys pampering himself like a real "birthday boy" appearing on almost every other performance.

He can easily perform on stage with anyone from Chiedza Chevatendi, Victor, Selmor and Munya to Mafunga. His combination with the "boys", I mean Mbare Trio, is one that is filled with comedy and real drama.

Whenever Mbare Trio invites Tuku on stage it's like friends who have not seen each other in years. They play and make merry. And he is out of this world when he plays alongside his son Sam.

The two act like they were born of the same mother. Sam even has the audacity to call Tuku by his first name, something that brings laughter to music lovers.

If there is any day that Tuku really feels young, it has to be his birthday and he makes sure there are no spoilers because there won't be any VIPs and all his fans would be treated as guests.

I'm told there is plenty to drink and eat and for just US$5 on Friday fans are assured of a thrilling act.

The Tuku Birthday Bash is always a time to experience the other side of Tuku who, besides his battle with diabetes that is slowing him down, jokes and mixes easily with his fans. It is a show like no other and very unpredictable.

Last year, Tuku acted the real birthday boy. He was donning a designer outfit with a matching fedora and was at his playful best.

Watson Chidzomba, the operations director of the centre, urged music lovers to come in numbers. "This is a show for everyone and we want to see music fans coming in numbers and celebrate the big day with Tuku.

"Also billed to perform are some of the best voices we have and I would want to emphasise that some of the artistes, who include Kunonga, Makoni and Willom Tight, will be performing as solo acts.

"There's lots in store including entertainment galore, tight security, a braai and full bar," Chidzomba said.