Farewell to the legends: Music icons we lost in 2024

In 2024, the music world faced profound losses as iconic figures across genres left behind enduring legacies. From shaping classical rhythms to redefining pop and rock, their contributions will inspire musicians and fans for generations. Here are some of the musicians we sadly parted with this year:

Ustad Tafu (1937 – 2024)

Pakistani tabla master and legendary musician Ustad TafuYouTube

Origin: Pakistan

Cause of Death: Prolonged Illness

Ustad Tafu, a legendary classical musician, was renowned for his mastery of the tabla, one of South Asia's most iconic percussion instruments. A disciple of the great Ustaad Allah Rakha, Tafu was celebrated for his unique technique and mesmerizing rhythms. He performed globally, sharing the stage with some of the world's greatest classical artists, including Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Ustad Tafu was associated with Coke Studio and was a pivotal part of its initial rhythm section. His passing in 2024 marked the end of an era for South Asian classical music.

Liam Payne (1993 – 2024)

British singer and former member of One Direction Liam Payne Instagram

Origin: United Kingdom

Cause of Death: Unknown, under investigation

Liam Payne, the British pop singer who rose to fame as a member of One Direction, tragically passed away in 2024. Payne was known for his distinctive voice, success in One Direction, and solo career. He had several hits, including "Strip That Down" and "Polaroid."

His untimely death at just 30 shocked fans worldwide; he left behind a legacy of chart-topping hits, charity initiatives, and a profound influence on modern pop culture. Payne’s sudden and unexpected death left the world mourning a star with limitless potential.

Haniya Aslam (1978 – 2024)

Pakistani Singer/Songwriter and Producer Haniya AslamInstagram

Origin: Pakistan

Cause of Death: Cardiac Arrest

Pakistani singer-songwriter Haniya Aslam's passing at 46 shocked her fans and the South Asian music industry. Known for her emotive vocals and folk-pop sound, she made a mark in local and international music scenes. Her breakout hit “Paimona” alongside Zeb Bangash in the duo Zeb & Haniya won her widespread acclaim, and she was lauded for her ability to blend traditional Pakistani music with contemporary styles.

She also won critical acclaim for her song ‘Ayi Re,’ one of her most significant solo musical ventures. Aslam’s untimely death due to a cardiac arrest left a deep void in the world of South Asian music, with her soulful voice silenced far too soon.

Zakir Hussain (1951 – 2024)

Indian tabla maestro Zakir HussainInstagram

Origin: India

Cause of Death: Complications from illness

Zakir Hussain, a tabla virtuoso and one of the most respected figures in Indian classical music, passed away in 2024 following a long illness. Over a career that spanned more than five decades, Hussain performed with global legends such as George Harrison, John McLaughlin, and Ravi Shankar.

His contributions to Indian and world music earned him numerous awards, including the Grammy Award with his group Shakti, featuring guitar virtuoso John McLaughlin and Indian singer Shankar Mahadevan. Zakir’s rhythm and innovation set the benchmark for tabla playing, influencing countless musicians across genres. His passing was a monumental loss to the global music community.

Quincy Jones (1933 – 2024)

American record producer Quincy Jones Instagram

Origin: United States

Cause of Death: Natural causes

Quincy Jones, the American musical genius whose career spanned over 70 years, passed away in 2024 at 91. Jones played a pivotal role in shaping modern music as a composer, conductor, producer, and arranger. His collaborations with Michael Jackson, including the iconic Thriller album, and his work with legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles made him one of the most influential figures in jazz and pop. With 28 Grammy Awards and an extraordinary music catalog, Jones’ unparalleled influence on music remains unmatched.

Kris Kristofferson (1936 – 2024)

American country singer and actor Kris KristoffersonIMDb

Origin: United States

Cause of Death: Alzheimer's complications

Kris Kristofferson, the iconic singer-songwriter, actor, and musician, passed away in 2024 after battling Alzheimer's disease. Kristofferson's contributions to country music are immense, with classic songs like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.”

He also enjoyed a successful acting career, starring in films such as A Star is Born (1976) and Blade. Kristofferson’s poetic storytelling and multi-faceted talent redefined country music and left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

Paul Di Anno (1958 – 2024)

British singer and founding member of British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, Paul Di AnnoInstagram

Origin: United Kingdom

Cause of Death: Various health issues

Paul Di Anno, the original lead singer of the legendary heavy metal band Iron Maiden, passed away in 2024 after a prolonged battle with various health issues, spending his final years in a wheelchair. Di Anno was the voice behind Iron Maiden’s first two albums, including their groundbreaking self-titled debut.

His raw, gritty vocal style helped define the band's early sound, and his contributions to metal music are still revered. Though he parted ways with the band early in their career, his influence on Iron Maiden’s success remains undeniable. Fans and fellow musicians mourned the loss of a true heavy metal pioneer.

Tito Jackson (1953 – 2024)

American singer/songwriter and founding member of the Jackson 5, Tito JacksonInstagram

Origin: United States

Cause of Death: Heart attack

Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5 and older brother to Michael Jackson, passed away in 2024 at 70. Tito’s contributions to the group were essential, whose guitar and backing vocals were integral to their sound. Following the success of the Jackson 5, Tito also pursued a solo career and continued to perform in various capacities. His passing marked the end of an era for the Jackson family, whose influence on pop and soul music remains incomparable.