Director / Writer Dana Ziyasheva Talks About 'Defenders of Life'
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Moonchild: The Life and Music of Yusuf Salim (2026)
Moonchild follows jazz pianist, composer, and mentor Yusuf Salim, from his early years playing on Baltimore’s famed Pennsylvania Avenue to his celebrated contributions to the emerging jazz and Black Muslim communities in his adopted hometown in Durham, North Carolina. Salim’s deep faith and embrace of human connection transformed the world around him, even through a lifelong battle with personal demons. During Yusuf’s 60-year musical journey, he inspired and propelled the careers of award-winning musicians and vocalists with his Black Atlantic cool and mastery of the songbook. Guided by his legacy, acclaimed jazz artists reunite in Durham to honor an unsung mentor and perform Salim’s music at historic concerts.
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Moonchild follows jazz pianist, composer, and mentor Yusuf Salim, from his early years playing on Baltimore’s famed Pennsylvania Avenue to his celebrated contributions to the emerging jazz and Black Muslim communities in his adopted hometown in Durham, North Carolina. Salim’s deep faith and embrace of human connection transformed the world around him, even through a lifelong battle with personal demons. During Yusuf’s 60-year musical journey, he inspired and propelled the careers of award-winning musicians and vocalists with his Black Atlantic cool and mastery of the songbook. Guided by his legacy, acclaimed jazz artists reunite in Durham to honor an unsung mentor and perform Salim’s music at historic concerts.
Rating:
Genre:Documentary, Music
Written By:Kenny Dalsheimer, Rafael Samanez
In Theaters:4/30/2026
Box Office:
Runtime:94 minutes
Studio:
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