South African jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim, one of the country's most celebrated musicians and cultural ambassadors, has died at the age of 91.
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The world is singing the blues for Abdullah Ibrahim, as tributes pour in for the South African jazz giant who died at 91.
Ibrahim died peacefully after battling a short illness in Germany, surrounded by family, on Monday.
He will be buried in the Bavarian town where he had made his home.
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) has paid tribute to Ibrahim, stating that it was honoured to have hosted his final performance.
Born Adolph Johannes Brand in Cape Town, he became an international star after being discovered by Duke Ellington in the 1960s and was widely regarded as a pioneer of Cape Jazz.
He was best known for compositions such as Mannenberg, which became an unofficial anthem of the anti-apartheid struggle, as well as classics including The Wedding, African Marketplace and Soweto.
CTIJF chairman Rayhaan Survé said: "Uncle Abdullah was one of South Africa's greatest musicians and his music carried South Africa to the world and brought the world closer to South Africa.
"While we mourn his passing, we celebrate a remarkable life dedicated to excellence, creativity and the transformative power of music."
He expressed his condolences to his partner, Dr Marina Umari, family, friends and colleagues.
CTIJF co-director Carolyn Savage, also paid her tribute, saying Ibrahim's presence was both humbling and inspiring.
"Ibrahim was more than an icon of the music industry; he was a musical storyteller, a cultural ambassador and a resilience whose work transcended borders and generations," she shared.
Savage said his legacy would continue to inspire artists and audiences around the world for years to come.
"What an immense privilege it was to dine with Abdullah, to share in his stories and humour," said Georgia Jones, CTIJF co-director.
Jones said she was moved by his contribution to South Africa and its music, noting that he has left a remarkable legacy and a lasting impression.
"We are sending our love to Marina and his family during this time," said Jones.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was saddened by the news.
"Today our nation mourns the passing of an international icon and global citizen whose profound creation honoured the South Africa that shaped his political commitment and musical brilliance.
"We give thanks for the many decades of his life that he devoted to his personal passion which he shared with humanity through his recordings and his appearances in clubs and concert halls throughout the globe."
Ramaphosa said: "He has enriched our lives with his musical gifts and his involvement in making the world a better place. May his soul rest in peace."
The DA said: "He was a legendary South African pianist, composer and jazz icon.
"His music touched audiences around the world, and his legacy will endure for generations."
The ANC's Fikile Mbalula said: "We mourn the passing of the global jazz legend whose music touched hearts across generations and continents.
"His extraordinary legacy will continue to inspire the world through every note he left behind.
"Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were moved by his remarkable gift."
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