Zakir Hussain, who won four Grammy awards throughout his career, was widely celebrated for his musical talent. Getty Images
Zakir Hussain, widely considered one of the greatest tabla players of all time, has passed away at the age of 73. The legendary Indian musician died after battling idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung disease, at a hospital in San Francisco, according to a statement from his family. His death has left a deep void in the world of music, as tributes continue to pour in from around the globe.
Hussain, a four-time Grammy award winner, was renowned for his extraordinary talent and innovative contributions to Indian classical music. He was also honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, a testament to his immense influence and achievements in the world of music. Hussain's career spanned over six decades, during which he redefined the role of the tabla, traditionally considered an accompaniment to the main performance in North Indian classical music. Through his mesmerizing performances, Hussain elevated the tabla to a global stage, making it a solo instrument loved and respected worldwide.
Born in 1951 in Mumbai, Hussain was introduced to music at an early age by his father, Ustad Allarakha Khan, a renowned tabla maestro. His first concert took place when he was just seven years old, setting the stage for a lifelong passion and dedication to the tabla. Hussain's early training, coupled with his exceptional talent, made him one of the most sought-after accompanists for top Hindustani classical musicians and dancers.
His remarkable technique and creative flair earned him the admiration of his peers. Nayan Ghosh, a sitar and tabla player who had known Hussain for 60 years, called the news of his passing "devastating." Ghosh described Hussain as a "pathbreaker" and "game-changer" who put the tabla and Indian music on the global map. He transcended the boundaries of genre and inspired countless musicians worldwide. Hussain's influence on music was not limited to India; his performances touched audiences in every corner of the globe.
Known for his playful and inventive spirit, Hussain's performances were described as a blend of precision and whimsy. A review of his 2009 performance at Carnegie Hall in New York praised his skill as both a "fearsome technician" and a "whimsical inventor." The New York Times noted that even when his fingers moved at a pace that rivaled the wings of a hummingbird, Hussain never seemed overbearing. His music was marked by a perfect balance of technical prowess and artistic expression.
Hussain’s death has left a profound impact on the world of music, but his legacy continues to live on through his recordings and the generations of artists he inspired. His contributions to the tabla, Indian classical music, and world music as a whole are unparalleled.
