Staff Writer
On the occasion of her 41st Birthday on 6 January 2022,
Zimbabwean jazz and gospel artist Dudu Manhenga celebrated her 41st birthday with the launch of her second book of poetry, titled ‘’Past, Present & Future’.
The launch was held on her Facebook page www.facebook.com/dudumanhenga.
Dudu described her writings as “Poetry by one woman who is walking a winding path towards God’s design”.
The book is the second in a trio started in 2017 which she named ‘3notkord’, quoting the Scripture ‘… a cord of 3 strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:12b) – a concept that resonates in music also. ‘Past, Present & Future’ follows Dudu’s first book ‘3notkord: Questions, Assumptions and Conclusions’ published in 2017, which is also available online.
The third book in this trio, ‘His Daughters’, will be released later this year.
Dudu says “This edition of 3NotKord is a kind of this-and-that. It looks at the past – mine and yours – the present, and finally the future.
The past is not always too pleasant and the present can be hard to bear, but the hope that the future brings is what always keeps us going. I pray that you will change how you look at the past, embrace it as the platform that got you here.”
The 25 poems are an opportunity to enter into the emotions of the past, present and hopes for the future with titles hinting at what may follow – In our mother’s kitchen . . . Just when my wit ends . . . The Cock’s Crow . . . I am dangerous to you . . . Igumbagumba . . . Mrs Moyo: A letter to my Grade 1 Teacher.
About the author
Dudu Manhenga is an acclaimed contributor to the rich music history of Zimbabwe. For more than 20 years she has written, recorded and performed for audiences in Zimbabwe and beyond, from the humblest to the highest, and brought dignity and respect to Zimbabwe in her travels in the world beyond our borders.
Her music story can be found at www.dudumanhenga.com. dudu manhenga dudu.manhenga@live.com +263 772 340 215
Dudu pastors the Oasis of Grace Church, under the Pentecostal Assemblies of Zimbabwe in Harare.
She is also a strong voice in defence of the poor and voiceless; and a supporter of women everywhere.
As a singer, lyricist and composer, with 5 music albums and a few singles in her discography (see Spotify, itunes and other online stores), Dudu’s words have reached the world through music.
Now, beyond the stage, her voice turns to the pages of the written word. She quotes the Psalmist: “My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer.” – Psalm 45:1
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