The emotional culmination of years of tension spilled over during her performance at the Oliver Mtukudzi International Festival of the Arts, where she made her first appearance at the Pakare Paye Arts Centre since her father's passing in 2019. 

This heartfelt outburst has sparked conversations about family dynamics and the complexities of legacy in the wake of a beloved public figure’s death.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming

The festival was meant to honor the legendary Oliver Mtukudzi, who passed away on January 23, 2019. Selmor was initially excluded from the lineup, a decision that led to significant backlash from fans. Many felt it would be an injustice to celebrate Tuku's legacy without his daughter taking the stage. 

The Emotional Performance

During her performance, Selmor’s long-simmering emotions became overwhelming. She told the audience how she had been denied the opportunity to perform at Pakare Paye for years. "I have always wanted to perform on this stage for many years, but ndichirambidzwa (I was turned away)," she lamented. Her sentiments resonated deeply, reflecting the pain of feeling excluded from her father’s legacy.

As she sang her father's poignant song “Changu Chii,” Selmor broke down mid-performance, unable to continue. Despite the efforts of fans and fellow musicians, she chose to walk off the stage, a moment that underscored her emotional struggle. “It’s hard to live knowing you’re being treated as an outcast in your father’s house,” she stated, emphasizing her feelings of isolation within the family.

The Strained Relationship with Daisy Mtukudzi

Selmor’s relationship with her stepmother, Daisy Mtukudzi, has been fraught with tension for years. Daisy has publicly criticized Selmor, describing her as naive and difficult to work with. This ongoing discord has created a rift in the family, particularly as Daisy oversees much of Tuku's legacy, including the rights to his music and the Pakare Paye Arts Centre.

A Call for Unity

In light of her recent outburst, Selmor’s plea for recognition and inclusion should be taken seriously. “I was only at the festival because Uncle Josh (promoter Josh Hozheri) asked me to, but my emotions came back at me,” she explained. Her words highlight the need for family dialogue and understanding. It is crucial for the Tuku family to address these issues openly and find a way to honor their shared legacy together.

Fans’ Perspectives and Support

The audience's reaction has been mixed, with some feeling Selmor should have been included in the closing night lineup alongside heavyweights like Jah Prayzah and Feli Nandi. Supporters believe that she deserves a platform to honor her father's memory fully, as her contributions to music are significant and impactful.

Tickets for the festival varied in price, indicating the varying levels of attraction and anticipation surrounding different performances. However, the emotional weight of Selmor's performance overshadowed the event, prompting a broader discussion about familial relationships in the arts community.

Time for Healing and Reconciliation

Selmor Mtukudzi’s emotional outburst serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities within families, especially when navigating legacies left behind by iconic figures. The ongoing drama within the Tuku family should prompt reflection and dialogue aimed at healing and reconciliation. As the Zimbabwean music community rallies around Selmor, it’s essential for the family to recognize the importance of unity and support, honoring Tuku's memory by coming together rather than allowing discord to mar their shared history.

It is time for the Tuku family to put aside differences and embrace one another, fostering an environment where all voices are heard and celebrated. Only then can they truly honor the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to bringing joy to so many.