By Own Correspondent| After twenty years of flying Zimbabwe’s flag in Europe, Luckson Chikutu popularly known as Manlukerz has finally got the recognition that has been elusive to him over the years- NAMA nomination.
Manlukerz will battle it out against Donel Mangena and Black Panther actress Danai Gurira in the special category of Artist in the Diaspora.
“It is humbling to be finally recognized home. I want to thank Zimbabwe and Sweden journalists who have contributed more than the expected in spreading my work. And l also want to thank Zimbabweans, Swedes, other European countries and Also Africans in Europe in general for being very supportive in my work l have been sharing with them,” he said.
The NAMA nomination comes barely after the trailblazing cultural ambassador scooped the prestigious award from Al-TV network Sweden for his role in promoting African culture.
The award came at a time that the maverick singer is celebrating twenty years in Sweden.
Due to his studies in music business. Manluckerz have evolved from just being a musician to
a Cultural Coordinator, Inter-Music Producer, Marketing Consultant, Artistic Director, Inter-Music Promoter, Inter-Artistic Advisory, Youths Coaching, Concept Development Event Management, Actor, Story Teller, Tourism and Cultural Author.
The singer who is celebrating 18 years in marriage is also the author of a cultural book called Flashback Identity.
“I managed to achieve my goals through focusing, determination, discipline and dedication. It is very important to plan in whatever you intend to do in life,” is Manluckerz’ advice to upcoming musicians.
He also reiterated the need for government to prioritize arts and culture.
Zimbabwe should put a budget for culture if the government is serious about promoting our tourism in other countries. Culture should have a budget. I created ZIMFEBI to promote Zimbabwe culture and tourism but when I got involved in an accident, the idea fizzled with me,” he said.
Chikutu is the man behind the annual Zimbabwe Music Festival Bira (ZIMFEB) was involved an accident that claimed two lives in 2015. He was in Zimbabwe for the festival.
Zimfeb was formed in April 2007.