Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain during a recent interaction in 2023.
The world of Indian classical music mourns the loss of Ustad Zakir Hussain, one of its most revered figures, who passed away on December 16, 2024, in San Francisco after a brief illness. Hussain, a tabla virtuoso, was instrumental in elevating the instrument to a global platform, using it as a voice for peace and humanity through his extraordinary talent.
Hussain’s musical journey began in a rich cultural environment where he sang devotional pieces from diverse traditions. This syncretic upbringing infused his rhythms with a unique vibrancy. His spontaneous style and natural flow not only captivated traditional audiences but also brought in enthusiasts of fusion and contemporary music. His achievements included winning three Grammy Awards in a single night earlier this year.
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The maestro enthralled listeners with complex rhythms and dynamic nuances, seamlessly integrating everyday sounds into his compositions. He showcased the tabla’s versatility, proving it to be both a rhythmic and melodic instrument. While many artists contributed to elevating the tabla’s status, Hussain’s impact remains unmatched.
Born to the legendary Ustad Alla Rakha, who played a pivotal role in internationalizing the tabla, Hussain formed an intrinsic bond with the instrument at a young age. His artistry transformed classical tabla performances, showcasing it as an expressive and emotive medium beyond mere rhythmic accompaniment.
Hussain’s musical siblings, Taufiq and Fazal, are also accomplished percussionists. However, Zakir Hussain’s unique blend of artistry and showmanship propelled his father’s legacy into uncharted territories. His versatility shone through his collaborations and solo performances, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the music community.
A child prodigy, Hussain began his professional journey at just 12 years old. His education was steeped in tradition, yet he was encouraged to explore and innovate. Hussain furthered his musical journey by teaching at the University of Washington and eventually joining a prestigious music college in San Francisco.
Shakti
A fortuitous encounter with guitarist John McLaughlin in New York led to the formation of Shakti, a groundbreaking band that fused Hindustani and Carnatic music with elements of Western jazz. This year, the group proudly received the Grammy for Best Global Music.
Hussain’s urge to experiment led to fruitful collaborations with artists across genres, including prominent figures in jazz and world music. His acoustic technique retained the tabla’s essence, even as he embraced contemporary influences. He maintained strong ties with fellow musicians, especially in collaborative performances that evolved into captivating melodic exchanges.
His exploration of fusion was a natural progression, influenced by historical figures who blended musical styles. Hussain contributed to various film projects, showcasing his versatility not only as a musician but also as an actor to some extent, furthering his reach within mainstream culture.
Despite his fame, Hussain remained humble and curious, viewing music as a lifelong journey. The pursuit of perfection was never a destination for him; he constantly sought new horizons in his artistry.
Published – December 16, 2024 09:04 am IST
