San Francisco, California – The world mourns the loss of legendary tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 73 due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, as confirmed by his family.
Hussain, an iconic figure in the music world, revolutionized the art of tabla playing by transcending cultural and musical boundaries. With a career spanning over five decades, he not only elevated Indian classical music but also became a global ambassador for modern world music.
A Legacy of Cultural Unity and Musical Excellence
Known for his unparalleled talent and versatility, Hussain collaborated with a remarkable array of musicians from various genres. His partnerships included jazz saxophonist Charles Lloyd, bluegrass pioneers Edgar Meyer and Béla Fleck, and rock legends such as George Harrison and Van Morrison. He even performed twice on NPR's Tiny Desk series, a rare honor, first in 2010 and later in 2023.
Humble Beginnings and a Lifelong Musical Journey
Zakir Hussain was born in Bombay (now Mumbai), where his musical journey began in the most unique way. As part of a family tradition, his father, Ustad Alla Rakha, whispered rhythms instead of prayers into his ear as a newborn. This act, symbolic of his father’s devotion to music, set the stage for Hussain’s lifelong connection with rhythm.
A Global Icon and Pioneer
At the age of 19, Hussain moved to the United States, where he collaborated with artists such as Mickey Hart of The Grateful Dead and jazz musician John Handy. In 1973, he co-founded the groundbreaking Indian jazz fusion band Shakti alongside guitarist John McLaughlin. The band introduced American audiences to the richness of Indian instruments and rhythms.
Hussain’s artistic achievements culminated in 2024 when he became the first Indian musician to win three Grammy Awards in a single year. His band Shakti won Best Global Music Album, and his collaborations with Edgar Meyer, Béla Fleck, and Rakesh Chaurasia earned Best Global Music Performance and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.
Passion for Teaching and Preservation
Beyond his illustrious performances, Hussain was deeply committed to teaching and spreading appreciation for Indian drumming. He often described himself as a lifelong student of music, constantly learning and exploring its vast possibilities.
Hussain’s passing marks the end of an era in the world of music. Revered as a national treasure in India and admired globally, his influence will continue to resonate with musicians and audiences for generations.