Habibuddin Khan was one of my ustad, Afaq Hussain's, favourite players. One reason was the beauty and balance of his sound; another was his marvelously subtle and sophisticated used of the bayan or bass drum. (Listening to it is so refreshing after hearing some modern players – who shall remain nameless – murder the bass with their whooping frenzies.) In this wonderful performance of a qaida, Habibuddin's two hands seem to be in lively conversation with each other. Sadly, Habibuddin is often remembered for his jealous rivalry with and dislike of Ahmedjan Thirakwa rather than for his own superb music. He died in obscurity and poverty, and no one is entirely sure just when he passed away.