🕯️ In Memoriam

MusicianComposerPercussionistActorShakti Indian ♓ Pisces

Zakir Hussain is an internationally renowned Indian tabla virtuoso, musical producer, and composer. He is the eldest son of the legendary tabla player Ustad Allah Rakha. Hussain began touring at the age of eleven and moved to the United States in 1970 to pursue a career in music. He became a central figure in the world music movement through his collaboration with the band Shakti alongside John McLaughlin. His work often bridges the gap between Indian classical music and Western jazz, rock, and fusion genres. Throughout his prolific career, he has collaborated with artists such as George Harrison, Yo-Yo Ma, and Mickey Hart. He has composed numerous film scores and soundtracks for both Indian and international cinema. In 1992, he won the Grammy Award for Best World Music Album for 'Planet Drum'. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1988 and the Padma Bhushan in 2002 by the Government of India. In 2023, he received the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor. He continues to perform globally and serves as a mentor to many aspiring percussionists. His technical mastery and rhythmic innovation have made him one of the most respected musicians in the world.