Tributes are pouring in following the death of South Africa’s legendary jazz pianist Abdullah Ibrahim.
He died on Monday in Munich, Germany at the age of 91.
Ibrahim who was affectionately known as ‘Dollar Brand’ is known for his outstanding piano skills.
His remarkable career spanned more than seven decades during which he became one of the most influential and celebrated figures in international jazz.
His final South African public performance took place at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March.
Ibrahim was renowned for his distinct piano sound that captured and represented the history and culture of the Cape Malay communitzy especially his hit song Mannenberg.
Musician Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse reflected on his memories of Ibrahim.
He says, “These are shocking news, I’m saddened by this as a musician, we were privileged to have interacted with Abdullah Ibrahim because of the record label he had established. As-Shams or the Sun Records was the first one to give Harare, an opportunity to be placed on record.”
VIDEO | Mabuse pays tribute to Ibrahim:
The Free State Music Association (FSMA) Chairperson Ayanda Roda says South Africa has lost an iconic jazz musician.
Roda says, “We are really saddened by his passing Mr Abdullah Ibrahim. May his soul rest in the creative power. He has played his role in the music industry, he laid the foundation and we will take the baton, and continue with the war of the creative sector, spreading the love of music, rest in peace sir. The baobab tree has fallen.”
