ATHENS, Ohio -- Zimbabwe's acclaimed Oliver Mtukudzi and his band, the Black Spirits, will play at Ohio University's Baker University Center Ballroom at 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 21. Mtukudzi is on tour promoting his new album, "Tuku Music," which spent 11 weeks at the top of the CMJ New World Music charts.

Mtukudzi began recording music in the mid-1970s as a member of Wagon Wheels, a band that also featured Thomas Mapfumo. After Wagon Wheels rolled to fame in Southern Africa, Mtukudzi formed Black Spirits. With a deep, gutsy voice and a talent for writing songs that reflect on the daily life and struggles of the people of his homeland, Mtukudzi is considered one of Zimbabwe's greatest artists. His blending of Southern African music traditions, including mbira, mbaqanga, jit and the traditional drumming styles of the Korekore, has created a unique sound that has been dubbed "Tuku music."

Mtukudzi has consistently balanced his musical career with his passion for film and drama. In addition to appearing in several documentaries on Zimbabwean music, including the BBC-produced Under African Skies and The Soul of the Mbira, he starred in Jit, the first film featuring an all-Zimbabwean cast. He also played a prominent role in, as well as composed and arranged the soundtrack for Zimbabwe's second film, Neria. His work earned him a M'Net award for Best Soundtrack of 1992. Mtukudzi subsequently wrote and directed the musical production Was My Child, about the plight of street children in Zimbabwe.

Advance tickets are available for $7 for Ohio University students and $14 for non-students. University students should contact Catherine Cutcher, 597-1511 or cutcher@ohio.edu, for tickets. Others can buy advance tickets at Blue Eagle Music at 40 N. Court Street. Tickets are $17 at the door.