Martial Solal composed music for films and orchestras but is gone at 97
- Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, 2024, in San Francisco due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
- He was a legendary tabla player who introduced the instrument to global audiences and celebrated collaborations with various artists.
- His death marks the loss of a cultural ambassador whose influence spanned six decades and will resonate through future generations.
In December 2024, Zakir Hussain, a renowned Indian classical musician, passed away at the age of 73 in San Francisco, United States, due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease. Hussain was elevated to prominence as the greatest tabla player of his generation and is credited with introducing the tabla to a global audience. His exceptional career spanned over sixty years, during which he collaborated with various notable musicians, including George Harrison and jazz saxophonist Charles Lloyd, leaving an indelible impact on the world of music. Born in 1951 in Mumbai, India, Hussain was the son of famed tabla artist Alla Rakha. From a very young age, he was immersed in music, learning to play the tabla under his father's guidance at seven years old. Throughout his life, Hussain remained dedicated to fulfilling his father’s wish of taking Indian music to new heights. In 1973, he formed the Indian jazz fusion band 'Shakti,' which combined Indian classical music with jazz elements, changing the landscape of how Indian music was perceived in the West. Hussain’s work earned him numerous accolades, including three Grammy awards in 2024 – a historic achievement for any Indian musician. His recognition continued with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, which he received in 2023. Many regarded Hussain as a cultural ambassador, and his legacy will inevitably inspire future generations of musicians around the world. The news of Hussain’s passing elicited tributes across the globe, as many recognized him not just for his musical talent, but also for his philanthropic efforts as a teacher and mentor. His vision to inspire young musicians will endure, as he fostered an appreciation for Indian classical music in diverse cultural spaces. Zakir Hussain’s unparalleled contributions and his dedication towards music will be remembered as a cornerstone of classical music history, and his legacy will carry on for generations to come.