18/06/2026
In memory of Abdullah Ibrahim, 1934–2026.
Abdullah Ibrahim, formerly known as Dollar Brand, photographed by Jürgen Schadeberg in New York in 1979.
Born in Cape Town, Ibrahim became one of South Africa’s most influential pianists and composers. His music reflected the many influences of his childhood in the multicultural port areas of Cape Town, drawing from traditional African music, church hymns, marabi and American jazz.
His work carried the sounds, histories and spirit of South Africa across the world.
He passed away on 15 June 2026 at the age of 91. We will always remember an extraordinary life in music and a lasting contribution to South African culture.
Photograph: Jürgen Schadeberg
New York, 1979
Abdullah Ibrahim, Dollar Brand, Jürgen Schadeberg, South African jazz, Cape jazz, jazz pianist, South African musician, music photography, jazz photography, archival photography, South African photography, fine art photography, New York 1979, cultural history, anti-apartheid music, African jazz, photography archive, Gallery F