SW Radio Africa (London)

Zimbabwe: Band Members Leave Mtukudzi Over Pay Dispute

By Lance Guma, 31 August 2011
Photo: Facebook
Zimbabwean music legend, Oliver Mtukudzi.

Oliver Mtukudzi and four members of his Black Spirits backing band have parted company after failing to agree on pay and other working conditions.

SW Radio Africa spoke to marimba player Charles Chipanga who confirmed that both he and his wife Namatayi, a backing vocalist for Tuku, were no longer part of the band.

Other band members reported to have walked away include bass guitarist Never Mpofu and drummer Simba Dembedza. The four asked for improved pay and working conditions but Mtukudzi allegedly told them he was already paying them the highest rates in the country and they were free to seek greener pastures.

A report on the NewZimbabwe.com website went further to say Mtukudzi's last show with the band members was on Friday at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex.

Over the weekend Mtukudzi performed with a new backing line up made up of Enock Piroro (bass), Max Chiwara (lead guitar), Blessing Mparutsa (drums) and Strovers Strovers (percussions) at a South African jazz festival.

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