Moonchild: The Life and Music of Yusuf Salim (2026)

Plot Summary

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.

Full Cast & Characters

Yusuf Salim

Self (Archival Footage)

Nnenna Freelon

Self

Bus Brown

Self (Archival Footage)

Eve Cornelius

Self

Elijah Fox-Peck

Self

Billy Stevens

Self

Gary Bartz

Self

Sister Rhonda Muhammad

Self

Imam Oliver Muhammad

Self

Lois Deloatch

Self

Robert Towers

Self

Dr. Brian Horton

Self

Director & Crew

Official Trailer

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