Njogu Ndung’u
Many artistes who perform in nightclubs and at other social functions are young people. But Thuku wa Gitau (Man Thuku) has defied tradition and is an active performer to date despite his advanced age.
The 68-year-old man has had a lengthy and illustrious career in music. In that time, he has served in the military as well as in civilian circles.
"I learnt how to play the guitar as a teenager in 1957 and I haven’t looked back since," he says.
"My star rose fast and between 1964 and 1966, I performed regularly in Mukaro Nightclub in Nairobi."
His career has traversed geographical areas. In 1967, he left Nairobi and was employed by the Nyandarua County Council as a band player.
Three years later, the Kenya Army employed him to found and train the Scarlet Band which, he says, is one of his greatest achievements as an artiste.
Thuku’s stint at the army lasted three months but he continued interacting with military officials after he left. As a result of this interaction, he was asked to suggest a band that could help the army practice music.
"I suggested Maroon Commandos which I knew had talented performers and they were accepted immediately."
From 1978, Thuku worked with the Kenya Police Band in Nyeri for a decade. It was only after retirement in 1989 that he went back to club entertainment and playing the guitar in recording studios.
Thuku is fulfilled by his achievements and talent.
He performs at Eagle Club in Kariobangi South every Saturday. "I am delighted my body is taking the ride fairly well."
His favourite music is country, especially the songs of Jim Reeves, Kenny Rogers, Cliff Richard and Don Williams. He also sings the music of Abba — he cites Chiquititta as his all-time favourite.
"It is so much fun singing these classic hits," Thuku says.
Besides songs by foreign artistes, Thuku sings Gikuyu Mugithi songs. He is an accomplished crooner and encourages the youth to learn how to sing and play musical instruments.
In his long career, Thuku has interacted with acclaimed artistes such MBaraka Mwinshehe, Franco, Daudi Kabaka, John Nzenze and Fadhili Williams.
"It was a wonderful experience interacting with these big names."
Operators don’t pay artistes
Some of the challenges Thuku has faced include the refusal by some restaurant and pub operators to pay artistes after they have performed in their establishments.
"It is unfair and discouraging not to be paid after singing the night away. It makes artistes poor."
Thuku somewhat rues spending so many years in military bands.
"I dedicated an inordinate amount of time and talent to the disciplined forces at the expense of other career paths that would have been more beneficial to me as a person and as an artiste," he says.
Another problem local artistes face is that they are rarely recognised and rewarded, as is the case in the West.
"It does not help much to have a big name and little material wealth to show for it."
Thuku has been a mentor to upcoming artistes. He was instrumental in the career growth of Kamande wa Kioi, Salim Junior and Mike Rua, all of whom cause ripples everywhere they perform.
As he reflects on his glorious past, Thuku looks forward to an even brighter future.
"I am grateful to God for the past and I ask him to keep me healthy to face the future. Thus far, I have no complaints. Life has been very kind to me."