TANYARADZWA MARABADA
Entertainment Writer
LEGENDARY gospel musician Mechanic Manyeruke, who turned 80 last week, has attributed his longevity to God’s grace.
With over 50 years in the music industry, Baba Manyeruke, as the musician is affectionately known in showbiz, is thankful for the milestone which many in his industry have found unattainable.
“Being 80 is not because I am clever but it is the grace of God. It all comes from one’s character, following God’s word and being morally upright,” he said. The octogenarian said he is a living testimony of God’s kindness.
“I am so happy with what God is doing in my life. I am living in grace because even the Bible says that ‘when God blesses you, one will live up to 70’ and am past that. I am now enjoying my bonus time now,” the elated Manyeruke said.
In Zimbabwe most artists do not live past 40 years and Manyeruke is one of the few who have lived to earn the gratuity fees from the association of musicians—Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (Zimura)—which is pegged at 75 years.
“To get to my age the greatest secret is God; one should shun the life of promiscuity or debauchery. Being morally upright is free; is not sold at any cost; it is just a choice one has to make,” said the veteran musician.
He added that God can only protect those who abide by his rules. “I urge the young artists to trust in God and behave in a respectable way that will keep sin at bay. The world we are living in now needs one to guard his or her health jealously.”
His advice comes at a time when a lot of artists have died before the age of 40. The general life expectancy in the arts sector is 40, which Is the reason why a number of musicians have tried to lobby Zimura to make the gratuity fee payable from the age of 40.
After being in the music industry for over five decades, Manyeruke boasts of 27 albums. However, his life has had its fair share of ups and downs. He once made headlines after being sold a dummy by dubious promoters who promised him a posh car that has not materialised up to this day.
The promoters wanted to honour him for his sterling work in the gospel music industry. As if that was not enough, recently he was left out by National Arts Council of Zimbabwe when it honoured 40 arts legends. Despite him experiencing some industry challenges, he remains focused.
To compensate his misfortunes in the industry, popular music promoter Partson Chimbodza, through his Chipaz Promotions, has lined up Manyeruke Tribute concert in October. He is organising the gig in partnership with Manyeruke’s son Guspy Warriors. “Baba Manyeruke’s benefit concert has been scheduled for October 28.
At the moment we are putting logistics in order. We will advise on further details as we are just in the process of finalising the artists line up,” said Patson Chimbodza.
On the other hand, journalist Borniwell Choga has penned a book in honour of the living legend to be launched on August 27. The following day, August 28, the Chitungwiza- based musician is expected to launch his 28th studio album.
Manyeruke’s musical journey dates back to the 1960s but his big break came when he was signed by Gramma records which resulted in him topping the radio charts in the 1980s to 1990s. Over the years, he has won several awards and has toured the region and overseas as a performer.