Word from Durham is that Brother Yusuf Salim, jazz pianist and iconic mentor figure to generations of Triangle jazz musicians since 1974, passed away early Thursday morning after a long illness. For more, check the obit.
Brother Yusuf Salim
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David Menconi has been the News & Observer's music critic since 1991. Before that, he spent five years at the Daily Camera in Boulder, Colo. He has a masters in journalism from the University of Texas and a B.A. in English from Southwestern University. You can find more of his writing here.
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Brother Yusuf
Tue, 09/16/2008 - 03:30 — "Sister" Marilyn (not verified)Random thoughts compelled me here in California to search for Brother Yusuf today, and my tears fall upon discovering he is gone.
God Bless Brother Yusef, I
Thu, 08/28/2008 - 23:23 — Anonymous (not verified)God Bless Brother Yusef, I was his neighbor and heard the music flow from his place for much of my early life. I heard the sounds of Eve Cornelius and a young Nnenna Freelon and so many others. I was out of state on vacation at the time of his passing and did not learn until my return. I give my condolences to his family, especially to his daughter Miriam. Jazz has lost a great figure who should have been known the world over.
NO KIDDING...
Tue, 08/05/2008 - 06:51 — Turner Battle (not verified)Talented, Humble, Friendly (hugs for everybody) ... Three qualities that Brother Yusuf possessed. He was a musician too.
No... SERIOUSLY.....he was a musician and he ACTUALLY possessed THOSE qualities. For real. One REALLY cool cat.
Remembering a "Gentle Giant"
Fri, 08/01/2008 - 21:04 — Sauda A. zahra (not verified)I, like many fans of Bro. Yusuf, was sadden to hear of this passing. So many thoughts ran through my mind from "back in the days" at the Sallam Cultural Center; house parties with good food, great "live" music, and often times than not, Bro. Yusuf was all up in the mix, to the last time our paths crossed in November '07 at a funeral. Bro. Yusuf arrived in a wheelchair and he was ready to muster the strength to honor the deceased with a song. Unfortunately, he could not access the equipment so he did not play. I was so disappointed because I didn't know if that would be my last time hearing him play. I was so touched by his willingness to "show up," albeit frail and in declining health, and to STILL have his music at the center of his life. Isn't that what true passion is all about? Bro. Yusuf had passion and was full of love and never missed an opportunity to share his gifts with the world. Play on Bro. Yusuf, play on...
Ahhh, Brother Yusuf, thank
Thu, 07/31/2008 - 23:46 — Audrey Layden (not verified)Ahhh, Brother Yusuf, thank you for what you added to the world and blessings on your journey.
Blessings!Blessings!
Tue, 08/05/2008 - 14:25 — Mudy Alston Stone (not verified)You were More Than Enough, and we appreciate your talent and service to mankind. God bless you!
I heard the news this
Thu, 07/31/2008 - 21:04 — baldezarI heard the news this morning on WNCU.
I remember many extraordinary listening experiences at the Sallam Cultural Center, back in the late 70s and early 80s. What a place that was. As I recall, Brother Yusuf was a co-owner along with Billy Stevens, the most incredible harmonica player you ever want to hear.
Rest in peace, Brother.
Yusuf will be missed...
Thu, 07/31/2008 - 18:52 — Anonymous (not verified)Yusuf was a great mentor & inspired so many musicians.7th Street Durham
Durham has truly lost one of
Thu, 07/31/2008 - 18:33 — Anonymous (not verified)Durham has truly lost one of the "greats". Rest in peace Brother Yusuf.