Multi-percussionist Kahil El’Zabar has been at the forefront of the spiritual, avant-garde jazz scene since the 1970s.
Throughout his career, he’s performed with legends including Nina Simone, Dizzy Gillespie, Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon and Cannonball Adderley. In the ’70s, he formed the groups Ethnic Heritage Ensemble and Ritual Trio, both of which remain active to this day. Between those groups and his own work as a solo bandleader, El’Zabar has more than 30 recordings to his name.
El’Zabar joined us on Jazz in the City to talk about his love of John Coltrane, his latest album A Time for Healing, and his favourite moments on stage.