18-12-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Renowned Malaysian jazz drummer Lewis Pragasam, a stalwart in the world of percussion, music education, and jazz fusion, has passed away at the age of 66. The Lewis Pragasam Official Fanpage on Facebook confirmed his demise, attributing it to a heart attack at a private hospital in Petaling Jaya at 3 am on December 18.
Reportedly, Pragasam passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends. Merely days before his death, on December 16, the Facebook page shared videos of the late drummer interacting with fans at a Shah Alam event. Plans were underway for him to perform at a Christmas event on December 17 and a live music showcase on December 21.
Born in Kuala Lumpur, Pragasam, initially a classic/progressive rock enthusiast, later delved into the world of jazz fusion inspired by John McLaughlin and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. A pioneer in Malaysian percussion, he founded the Asiabeat Project in 1979, aspiring to create a fusion group with a cross-cultural music language.
In 1983, Pragasam broke new ground in the local recording scene with the release of Asiabeat’s self-titled debut album by major label CBS. The album marked a fusion of Asian ethnic rhythms and Western jazz. Under Pragasam’s creative leadership, Asiabeat released several albums, including the notable “Dare To Dream” (1984), “Drumusique” (1993), and “Monsoon” (1994).
In 2021, he released “Akar,” an album under Lewis Pragasam’s Asiabeat, showcasing his continued engagement in the contemporary pop fusion scene.
Pragasam’s influence extended beyond his band, as he collaborated with top Malaysian artists like Sheila Majid and performed with international jazz icons such as Bob James and Tony Levin. His contributions were not confined to the stage, as he became an in-demand session drummer for numerous local albums spanning pop, rock, and jazz genres.
Recognized as one of Asia’s leading percussionists, Pragasam’s performances included a royal command show in 1995 for then-Prince Charles in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Apart from his musical prowess, Pragasam received a Fulbright scholarship in the early 1990s, researching the ethnic music of Southeast Asia and world music in the United States.
In the mid-1990s, he added music education to his repertoire, establishing the Groove School and contributing to the drum culture across Malaysia. Pragasam became a familiar face at drum clinics and percussion festivals, nurturing young talent and creating broader awareness of drum culture.
