Grammy-winning Indian tabla musician Zakir Hussain dies aged 73

Grammy-winning Indian classical musician Zakir Hussain has died aged 73.

His family said in a statement that Hussain died from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in San Francisco on Sunday.

“His prolific work as a teacher, mentor and educator has left an indelible mark on countless musicians. He hoped to inspire the next generation to go further. He leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a cultural ambassador and one of the greatest musicians of all time,” the statement said.

Hussain was known for introducing tabla -a pair of hand drums that acts as the main percussion instrument in Indian classical music - to global audiences.

He collaborated with an array of world-famous musicians throughout his six decade career, including George Harrison and Earth, Wind and Fire. He also performed on Van Morrison's 1979 album Into The Music, playing tabla on the tracks 'Bright Side of the Road' and 'Steppin' Out Queen.'

In 1973, Hussain formed the Indian jazz fusion band Shakti with jazz guitarist John McLaughlin.  In 2024, Hussain became the first Indian musician to win three Grammys in the same year, winning best global music album, as well as best global music performance and best contemporary instrumental album for his his collaboration with Edgar Meyer, Béla Fleck and flutist Rakesh Chaurasia, Pashto.