Zakir Hussain, one of India's most accomplished classical musicians who defied genres and introduced tabla to global audiences, has passed away at the age of 73. The Indian classical music icon died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease, at a hospital in San Francisco, his family said Sunday.
His family released a statement, reflecting on his impact: “His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He hoped to inspire the next generation to go farther. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time.”
Hussain was recognized as the foremost exponent of the tabla, the main percussion instrument of Indian classical music. Over his extraordinary career spanning six decades, he collaborated with renowned artists from various musical backgrounds, including George Harrison, Van Morrison, jazz saxophonist Charles Lloyd, and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
Born in 1951 to legendary tabla artist Ustad Alla Rakha, Hussain was introduced to the rhythms of tabla as early as seven. A child prodigy, he was already performing publicly by age 12, gracing stages with the stalwarts of Indian classical music. His father’s influence was pivotal; Hussain recounted, “From the day you're brought in from the nursing home where you were born you really are inducted.” He often stated his father welcomed him with tabla rhythms instead of prayers.
Hussain's career reached notable highs when he formed the Indian jazz fusion band Shakti with guitarist John McLaughlin in 1973. This collaboration brought together Indian music and jazz, creating innovative musical fusions and introducing new audiences to the tabla.
His commitment to nurturing his craft and pushing the boundaries of tabla led to monumental achievements. He made history as the first Indian to receive three Grammy awards in one night. His band Shakti claimed Best Global Music Album at the 2024 Grammys, and his collaboration with Edgar Meyer, Béla Fleck, and flutist Rakesh Chaurasia won multiple accolades.
Hussain also received India’s second-highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan, emphasizing his legacy not only as a performer but also as a cultural ambassador. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Hussain’s contributions: “He was a true genius who revolutionized the world of Indian classical music.”
Tributes have begun to pour in globally following Hussain’s death. Nayan Ghosh, a sitar and tabla player, expressed his sorrow saying, “He was a pathbreaker, a game-changer, an icon who put tabla and Indian music on the world map.” Meanwhile, Mickey Hart, with whom Hussain collaborated extensively, expressed his deep appreciation: “The world will never be the same without him.”
Hussain's talents were not limited to performing; he was also revered for his work as an educator, influencing the next generation of musicians and bringing tabla to wider audiences. His contributions were highlighted by many musicians who recognized him as someone who earned the utmost respect not just for his skill, but for his capacity to inspire.
Throughout his career, Hussain collaborated with not only Indian musicians but also artists from different genres, thereby eleviating the tabla from merely being considered accompaniment to becoming front and center. Through his records and performances, he helped create cross-genre projects, such as his 1991 album Planet Drum, which won the Grammy for Best World Music Album - the inaugural award for this category.
Hussain lived with music as the focal point of his life, something he described passionately. His contributions to music have reverberated across generations, bridging cultural and musical divides. He worked tirelessly to create connections through music, showcasing the tabla as not just an Indian instrument, but one adaptable to music worldwide.
His legacy extends beyond mere accolades; it is embodied in the rhythms he shared, the artists he mentored, and the joy he brought to audiences globally. Zakir Hussain is survived by his wife, Antonia Minnecola, and their two daughters, Anisa and Isabella Qureshi. The music world remembers him not just as an artist, but as a cultural bridge-builder whose influence will resonate for years to come.
