Tarik Shah is a musician, bassist, music teacher, professor level martial artist, practicing Muslim, and student of knowledge. Born and raised in New York City, Shah began playing the upright bass at age twelve and was a student of Slam Stewart. He has performed and recorded with jazz legends such as Ahmad Jamal, Dakota Staton, Vanessa Rubin, Ellis Marsalis, Barry Harris, Pharoah Sanders and the late great songstress Betty Carter. Additionally, Shah performed with big bands such as the Duke Ellington Orchestra, and in small groups led by Red Rodney, Sir Roland Hanna, Abbey Lincoln, Harold Vick, Dr. Lonnie Smith and others. He has toured extensively nationally and internationally, including performing at the inaugural ball of President Bill Clinton in 1992. In 2018, he began rebuilding a career as a musician after wrongful conviction by the FBI in 2006. His group the Tarik Shah Quintet has performed in venues including New York City staples Smalls and Mezzrow.
Interviewed by Tamar Sella, 09/29/2020.