Abdullah Ibrahim, born Adolph Johannes Brand in 1934 in Cape Town, South Africa, is a distinguished pianist and composer whose music seamlessly blends traditional African melodies with jazz improvisation. His early exposure to Christian hymns and African Khoi-san songs, through his family's involvement in the African Methodist Episcopalian church, laid the foundation for his unique sound. Beginning piano lessons at seven and turning professional by fifteen, Ibrahim's career spans over six decades. Notably, his 1974 composition "Mannenberg" became an anthem against apartheid. Honored as a 2019 NEA Jazz Master, Ibrahim continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his spiritually enriching performances. ([arts.gov](https://www.arts.gov/honors/jazz/abdullah-ibrahim?utm_source=openai))