JOHANNESBURG (AP) 鈥� Globally celebrated jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim, who performed at 鈥檚 1994 presidential inauguration, has died at age 91, his family announced in a statement Monday.
Ibrahim, formerly known as Dollar Brand, passed away peacefully in following a short illness, surrounded by loved ones, the statement issued on behalf of his family said.
Born in , Ibrahim rose to international prominence as a pianist, composer and bandleader. With a career spanning more than seven decades, he forged a unique blend of and South African musical traditions, making him a cultural ambassador whose music struck a chord with listeners worldwide.
As one of South Africa鈥檚 most respected jazz figures, he famously played at 鈥檚 1994 presidential inauguration.
His final public concert in took place at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March, when he once again captivated audiences with the musical skill that defined his career.
Paying tribute to her partner, Dr. Marina Umari said he 鈥減assed away peacefully with South Africa and its people in his heart.鈥�
鈥淗is love for his country never wavered, no matter where in the world he found himself,鈥� she said.
His family said that even though his life is over, his influence and voice would continue to resonate around the world.
paid tribute to the musician, praising his contribution to the anti-apartheid struggle and acknowledging his lasting impact through music.
鈥淭oday our nation mourns the passing of an international icon and global citizen whose profound creations honored the South Africa that shaped his political commitment and musical brilliance,鈥� said Ramaphosa.
In 2009, Ibrahim received an Honorary Doctorate in Music from Wits University and the Order of Ikhamanga, a prestigious civilian award, from former President Jacob Zuma in the same year.
Alan Winde, the mayor of the Western Cape, where Ibrahim鈥檚 hometown is located, honored the performer and commended him for capturing South Africa鈥檚 cultural richness and history in his music.
鈥淪outh Africa has lost a legend,鈥� Winde said. 鈥淎bdullah Ibrahim represented everything that makes South Africa and the Western Cape so remarkable. His music told the story of our unique cultural diversity and past.鈥�
According to his family, Ibrahim will be laid to rest in the German state of Bavaria, where he lived.
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