Zakir Hussain: Colossal Master Of The Music World Beyond Borders

The world of music has lost a luminary with the passing of Zakir Hussain, a tabla virtuoso whose contributions to both North Indian classical music and global musical fusions have left an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary music. Hussain, who passed away at the age of 73 due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, was not just a master of his craft but also a bridge between diverse musical traditions, collaborating with an array of artists across genres and cultures.

Born on March 9, 1951, in Bombay (now Mumbai), Zakir Hussain Qureshi was destined for a life steeped in music. He was the eldest son of Alla Rakha Qureshi, a renowned tabla player and a long-time collaborator of the legendary sitarist Ravi Shankar. His mother, Bavi Begum, played a crucial role in nurturing the household and the musical education of her husband’s students. Following the advice of a saint, she changed her son’s surname to Hussain shortly after his birth, a name that would soon become synonymous with musical excellence.

Hussain’s musical journey began almost immediately after his birth. He recounted a poignant moment from his early days when his father, instead of reciting a prayer, sang rhythms into his ear, marking the beginning of his lifelong relationship with music. By the age of seven, he was formally studying under his father, engaging in rigorous daily practice sessions that would lay the foundation for his future as a musician. His early exposure to various musical traditions—including reciting the Quran, singing hymns in a Roman Catholic church, and listening to Sufi qawwali music—fostered a rich tapestry of influences that would inform his artistry.

At just 12 years old, Hussain played his first paid concert, and by 18, he made his U.S. debut alongside Ravi Shankar at the iconic Fillmore East in New York. This performance marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him collaborate with a diverse range of artists, including George Harrison, Van Morrison, Herbie Hancock, and members of the Grateful Dead. His ability to seamlessly blend Indian classical music with various genres led to the formation of groundbreaking groups such as Shakti, which he co-founded with guitarist John McLaughlin in 1973. Shakti was not only a fusion of East and West but also a melding of North and South Indian rhythms, showcasing Hussain’s innovative spirit.

Hussain’s collaborations extended beyond traditional Indian music. He was a key figure in the world music movement, earning multiple Grammy Awards for his work. In 2023, he and his fellow musicians from Shakti released the album “This Moment,” which won the Grammy for Best Global Music Album. Additionally, he shared two more Grammys for the album “As We Speak,” a collaboration with Béla Fleck and other notable musicians. These accolades are a testament to his ability to transcend musical boundaries and create a universal language through rhythm and melody.

Throughout his career, Hussain maintained an impressive performance schedule, playing over 150 concerts a year. His performances were characterized by an infectious energy and a deep connection to his audience. He once remarked, “Music is a conversation that happens amongst people,” emphasizing the power of music to transcend borders and foster understanding among diverse cultures. This belief was not just theoretical; it was a guiding principle in his life and work.

In addition to his performance career, Hussain was also an educator. He studied and taught ethnomusicology at the University of Washington in Seattle, where he earned a Ph.D. His commitment to education continued at the Ali Akbar College of Music in San Rafael, California, where he led the Tal Vadya Rhythm Band, a cross-cultural percussion ensemble. His dedication to teaching and sharing knowledge was evident in his interactions with students and fellow musicians alike.

Hussain’s innovative spirit led him to explore new musical territories. In 1991, he founded Moment Records to release his classical and contemporary collaborations. He also collaborated with producer Bill Laswell to create Tabla Beat Science, a project that fused traditional tabla drumming with electronic music, resulting in a studio album and a successful tour. This willingness to experiment and embrace new sounds kept his music fresh and relevant, appealing to both traditionalists and modern audiences.

His marriage to Antonia Minnecola, a dancer in the Indian classical style of Kathak, further enriched his artistic life. Antonia not only managed his career but also contributed to his creative endeavors. Together, they raised two daughters, Isabella and Anisa, who continue to carry forward the legacy of their father’s musical heritage.

Hussain’s contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious Kyoto Prize in 2022, a lifetime achievement award in the arts and sciences. During his acceptance speech, he reflected on the timeless nature of Indian classical music and its evolution in a global context. He expressed a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of music and culture, stating, “The way it was played 500 years ago — same way it is being played now… we not only are doing our music, Indian classical music, but we are also learning how to be able to talk our music in as many different musical languages as possible.”

Zakir Hussain’s legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and a deep reverence for the traditions of his heritage. His ability to connect with musicians from various backgrounds and create music that resonates with audiences worldwide is a testament to his extraordinary talent and vision. As we remember him, we celebrate not only his remarkable achievements but also the spirit of unity and understanding that he championed through his art.