Zimbabwe's most successful and internationally renowned musician has died.

Oliver Mtukudzi passed away on Wednesday (January 23) after suffering from diabetes.

He was 66.

Affectionately known as "Tuku," the musician's career spanned four decades and 67 albums. He was the most recognized artist to emerge from Zimbabwe onto the international scene.

And his husky voice earned a devoted following across the African continent and beyond.

Tributes calling him a giant of African music have been pouring onto social media Some people are drawing attention to the fact Mtukudzi passed away on the first death anniversary of his friend - the South African jazz legend Hugh Masekela.

Tuku's music touched on people's everyday life struggles and steered clear of politics.

The musician spent his later years producing duets with younger artists, mentoring many of them at his arts center on the outskirts of Harare.