music

South African jazz pianist Abdullah Ibrahim dies aged 91

The accomplished musician, who recorded over 70 albums in his career, died peacefully in Germany after a short illness

South African jazz pianist Abdullah Ibrahim dies aged 91

TL;DR

  • Abdullah Ibrahim, a renowned South African jazz composer and pianist, passed away at 91.
  • He died peacefully in Germany after a short illness.
  • Ibrahim, born Adolph Johannes Brand, began composing at seven and made his professional debut at 15.
  • He recorded over 70 albums, with his most famous piece being the anti-apartheid anthem 'Mannenberg'.
  • He converted to Islam in 1968, changing his name to Abdullah Ibrahim.
  • Ibrahim collaborated with Duke Ellington and performed at the Newport Jazz Festival.
  • He also composed soundtracks for films and received numerous awards, including the German Jazz Trophy.