Tabla legend Zakir Hussain dies at 73, leaving a lasting musical legacy
Zakir Hussain, the renowned Indian tabla player, passed away on December 15 at the age of 73. He was celebrated for his contributions to South Asian music and collaborations with Western artists, including George Harrison and the Grateful Dead. Hussain began his musical journey early, performing at just seven years old. He gained fame in the U.S. after debuting with Ravi Shankar in 1970 and later formed the Diga Rhythm Band with Mickey Hart. His work spanned various genres and included collaborations with many notable musicians. Despite his success, Hussain spoke against the tokenization of South Asian artists in the music industry. His performances were marked by a deep reverence for his craft, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and musicians alike.