Free Nasheeds 4u

We are merging.... with Yamustafa.com

2009-03-04T01:36:00.004Z

Dear Brother and Sister,

As-Salāmu `Alaykum (السلام عليكم)

I'm happy to let you know that this site is merging with Yamustafa.com. Me and brother Yasin will be working together to create a fully working site with lots of nasheeds. We have bought a paid hosting and uploading all the nasheeds at presents.

You will be redirected to Yamustafa.com automatically.

Thank you for visiting Free-Nasheeds4u

2008-08-27T01:16:00.007+01:00

Dear Brother and Sister,

As-Salāmu `Alaykum (السلام عليكم)

Firstly I would like to thank you for visiting my site. I'm fully aware that most of the audio in this site is not working but I'm unable to sort it out for many reasons. Firstly I'm a really busy person and I spent a lot of time creating this site but at present I'm working full time and I've little time to maintain it.

The main reason why most of the things if not all is not working is due to bandwidth problem as all the things are hosted on free sites with limited bandwidth but since a lot of people are visiting this site... it runs out quite quickly. And I can't afford to get paid bandwidth (a lot of bandwidth is required to host over 800+ nasheeds). A lot of people are downloading the songs illegally so that’s a major source where bandwidth is lost. I’m unable to provide direct download links in site as this will be illegal and this site will be closed as this too is hosted freely on blogger.

Even if I were to get paid hosting right now it will take me long time to upload everything online again so I’m unable to fix it before Ramadan (SORRY!). I may have to shut this site down as without your support and donation I’m unable to continue.
I’ve bought some new albums with the money that was donated ($20) but I can’t do much as I’ve mentioned above without paid hosting. I urgently need your support so please donate as much as you can I’ll try my best to sort this site out. If you have any new albums please share. You can upload anywhere online and email me the download link to downloadx247@gmail.com. That’s also my PayPal email address if you want to donate. Any amount is welcome...

Lastly I’m working on a nasheeds download site and also Islamic SMS site but please be patient as this takes time and effort and I’ll keep you posted.

If you have any other question or if you can help me in any way please contact me directly through email (downloadx247@gmail.com). It may take few days for me to reply as my inbox is normally full but I’ll reply to each message personally. I specially thank you to all who’s been using the chat box and please write your name or email when posting it makes it easier for other people to contact you or refer to you.

Jazakallahu Khayran ( جزاك اللهُ خيراً)

Wassalam,
Admin, Free-Nasheeds4u

Donate £1 today. If everyone who visted this site doanated £1 each we will have over £2000. Click on the button below...

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Aa'shiq-al-Rasul

2008-06-11T12:37:00.006+01:00

Aashiq-al-rasul has been removed by blogger because someone complained about copyright infringements. Buy I don't understand why? What am I doing wrong! I'm only allowing visitors to listen to nasheeds online and this doesn't affect the sale of the albums in anyway. Or is just simple jealousy! I don't know.

Anyway Thanks for visiting my site and please do Dua'a for me and for this site. Don't forget to tell your friends about this site and donation is always appreciated. If Blogger start removing my posts then I will have seek alternative paid hosting and without your support thats impossible.

Jazakallah

To the person who complained: Please contact me directly before you complain to Blogger and I'll try to solve the issue betweens us. Many Thanks

Talib Al-Habib - Songs of Innocence

2008-06-04T23:28:00.002+01:00

'Songs of Innocence' is a collection of eight original English-language songs from Talib al-Habib, a student of the sacred sciences and Medical Doctor. Its subject matter has been aptly described as, 'love of Allah, love of his Prophet, love of teacher, love of family, and love of mankind.' Adapted from a series of poems composed over ten years, they were set to music in a six month period following Ramadhan 1425, in response to the encouragement of several nasheed artists. Talib drew on his childhood experiences of choral singing in arranging the songs, and utilised the daff for percussion after consultation with recognised scholars of traditional Islam.

Talib al-Habib - Rahma

2008-06-04T23:26:00.002+01:00

An anthology of exquisite nasheeds based entirely on Hadith, that will inspire the soul to contemplation of Allah and love of Islam. This album is an invaluable educational resource, introducing children to the sayings of the blessed Prophet (saws) through song.

Yusuf Islam - Night of Remembrance

2008-06-04T23:08:00.006+01:00

Night of Remembrance commemorated 20 years of Islamia Schools. Held at the Royal Albert Hall on 20th October 2003, Yusuf Islam was joined by friends from around the world to celebrate this anniversary and share the universal message of peace.

Yusuf Islam - In Praise of the Last Prophet

2008-06-04T23:00:00.004+01:00

This collection of songs extolling the Last Prophet (saw) is an attempt to portray and fortify the love that every Muslim should have for the Messenger and which is essential. Love of the Prophet (saw) is something the early Muslims overflowed with and is something we should try to emulate.

Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second Caliph and companion of the Prophet himself provides a good example of this, when at one time he said, 'O Messenger of Allah! I love you more than anything except my soul.' The Messenger of Allah (saw) replied, 'No, by Him in Whose Hand my soul is (you will not truly believe) till I am dearer to you than your own soul.' Umar said, 'However, now, by Allah, I love you more than my own soul.' The Prophet (saw) said, 'Now Umar (you are a believer.)'

Yusuf Islam - A Is For Allah

2008-06-04T22:56:00.002+01:00

A is for Allah takes its name from the title track written by Yusuf after the birth of his first child, and is the complete audio version of the book completed almost two decades later.

Discovering the new spiritual horizons of Islam back in 1977, Yusuf's life changed - and so too did his perspective. This epic work reflects that change away from the narrow confines of this world to the unbounded, everlasting presence of God and the Hereafter.

Narrated by Yusuf and based on the 28 letter Arabic Alphabet, this is an exciting double album that reaches new heights in education and entertainment. Bursting with rich sound effects and featuring the voices of Hamza Yusuf, and Sheikh Muhammad Gibreel, with songs by Zain Bhikha, Raihan and Yusuf himself, A is for Allah is a must for every explorer of wisdom, young and old.

Yusuf Islam - Bismillah

2008-06-04T22:47:00.003+01:00

The nasheeds in this album seek to praise the Almighty, first and foremost, but additionally they try to inspire the listener to reflect upon the majesty of their Creator - that all that surrounds us, including ourselves, is the direct result of God's creation; indeed nothing happens in our world without His express knowledge and say-so. The songs urge us to remember Allah more frequently; to be grateful for all His Blessings; to seek His Guidance and Forgiveness. In other words, worship Him.

Yusuf Islam - I Have No Cannons That Roar

2008-06-04T22:44:00.002+01:00

A tribute to the Muslims of Bosnia. This collection of songs, in Bosnian and English, and instrumental styles, sometimes somber and sometimes heartening, will ensure that listeners never forget Bosnia and what Bosnia means for all of us. Yusuf Islam, the primary composer and lyricist, sings a reflective tune entitled, 'The Little Ones'. Other songs are 'I Have No Cannons That Roar', 'Hey Homeland', 'Allah is Enough for Me', 'Last Flight', 'I Am a Son of Yours', 'Mother, Father, Sister, Brother', 'When Adhans Are Called,' 'The Blossoms Blown', 'Where Are Makkah and Madinah', and 'Spring of Tasnim'. While saddened by the Bosnian tragedy, this album looks toward a bright future, Insha'Allah. As Bosnian President Alija Izetbegovic stated, 'we believe that Bosnia will be better.'

Yusuf Islam & Friends - I Look I See

2008-06-04T22:42:00.002+01:00

I Look I See contains nine lively and inspirational songs for children. With short teaching inserts between songs it is a new and melodic approach to helping children learn the beauty of Creation, good morals and love for God and His final messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him). Yusuf Islam sings the title song and is accompanied by his young friends from South Africa and Britain , including Zain Bhikha's 9 year old son Rasheed who features on many of the tracks.

Yusuf Islam - An Other Cup

2008-06-04T22:40:00.003+01:00

An Other Cup is Yusuf Islam's first album of modern pop songs since his last album in 1978. Of his return to the pop music world, Yusuf Islam says, "I feel right about making music and singing about life in this fragile world again. It is important for me to be able to help bridge the cultural gaps others are sometimes frightened to cross."

Yusuf Islam - Footsteps in the Light

2008-06-04T22:38:00.003+01:00

Footsteps in the Light celebrates an era spanning from 1981 to 2006 of songs by Yusuf Islam. From his first release of A is for Allah recorded in 1981 for his daughter Hasanah to the more recent Angel of War and Wild World (Bana, Bana). This is an album that looks back at the work of an Artist who was a pioneer for the development of the nasheed genre in the West influencing Artists world wide. All songs feature only voice and drum, the style he adopted during this period. The album contains 14 tracks including the Adhan (Call to prayer) recited by Yusuf.

Zain Bhikha - Children of Heaven

2008-06-04T20:44:00.003+01:00

Zain Bhikha's songs have always appealed greatly to children, with their simple yet powerful, educational and inspiring lyrics. In this album are 15 classic tracks taken from Zain's previous albums that were released only in South Africa. All have been chosen personally by Zain with children in mind, making Children of Heaven the must have album of Islamic songs for children.

Zain Bhikha - Towards The Light

2008-06-04T20:43:00.003+01:00

Ever since Zain Bhikha's wonderful voice was featured on A is for Allah, this young man from South Africa has gone on from strength to strength, proving himself to be a popular and accomplished singer of Islamic nasheeds. Towards the Light highlights Zain's naturally beautiful voice and song writing ability. Compiled from previously released albums, Towards the Light contains songs selected by Zain, some of which have been re-mixed with harmonies. Tracks include, The Journey, Welcome O Ramadan and the popular Nabi-un-Nab.

Zain Bhikha - Our World

2008-06-04T20:40:00.002+01:00

The aim of this album was to try and portray, in a small way the many diverse cultures, languages and traditions that we as humankind possess. How Islam unifies us all as brothers and sisters working towards a single, common objective of complete submission to the will of our Creator. On this album Zain had the opportunity to work with the many talented artists on this album. The only aim of projects like these is to bring all who listen to it closer to Allah thereby attaining peace and success for now and the Hereafter. May Allah accept our humble efforts. The album features tracks like Orphan Child, We Are Your Servants and Allah Hu.

Zain Bhikha - Faith

2008-06-04T20:28:00.002+01:00

Faith covers a spectrum of subjects that range from struggles in everyday life to the utter joy of a wedding to various aspects that invoke a powerful consciousness of the Almighty. Amazing songs and great harmonizing. Nasheeds include 'Mount Hira', and 'The Wedding Song'.

Zain Bhikha - Mountains of Makkah

2008-06-04T20:27:00.002+01:00

Mountains of Makkah is an album that takes you on a journey to the House of God through the songs of Zain Bhikha. Zain made the pilgrimage to Makkah in 2004 and was inspired to share his experiences by recording 10 thought provoking tracks including a revival of his original song The Journey written many years before he made his actual pilgrimage.

Zain Bhikha - Allah Knows

2008-06-04T20:25:00.004+01:00

Zain Bhikha releases a album for the young (and the young at heart). 'Allah Knows' features the musical talents of Dawud Wharnsby Ali, Abdul-Malik Ahmad and Rashid Bhikha, in addition to introducing Naadira Alli and the young Muhammad Bhikha who makes his first recording debut on this album.

The album, is a collection of 10 songs to help kids through the early mysteries of life and the social challenges that present themselves to much of them, it is a ground breaking approach to tackling the questions of a youthful mind and the innocent hearts of our children

Shaheed Alkawn - Amazing Allah

2008-06-04T00:10:00.002+01:00

Amazing Allah is a beautiful collection of nasheeds, all in praise of Almighty God. For this, his second album, Shaheed adopts a soothing, melodious style of singing interlaced with delightful harmonies. Tracks include the rousing 'Sweet Release' to the cautionary song 'No More Time' which entreats us all to remember our time on earth is but short.

Shaheed Alkawn - Unity

2008-06-04T00:08:00.003+01:00

Released December 2003, Unity has been warmly received with much critical acclaim. Featuring a variety of musical styles all generated through voice only and utilising beat-box, this album is both unique and profound. Features the stirring 'We Need To Heal' and his special rendition of 'Asma ul-Hasna'.

SHAAM in Concert

2008-06-03T14:17:00.005+01:00

SHAAM performing in front of nearly 3000 in their hometown of Birmingham at the Aston Event Centre on Saturday 6th December 2003, as part of the sell-out nationwide Nasheed Extravaganza 2 Concerts. A great atmosphere & performance is captured well on this CD. Features live renditions of favourites such as 'Mercy like the Rain', 'Jashne Aamede Rasool' and 'SallAllahu a'la Muhammad' (2 versions!) plus a medley of some of their spiritual Arabic songs like 'Jood Alayna'

SHAAM - Spring Has Come

2008-06-03T14:05:00.002+01:00

Spring Has Come evokes the coming of Rabi al-Awwal and most of the nasheeds have the Blessed Prophet (SAW) as their theme; some directly such as the Urdu classics Makki Madani and Hazoor Agaey Hein, while others like the title track Spring has Come allude to him and his mission. All four English songs were written by the group and each is layered with fantastic harmonies and rhythmic drum patterns - the hallmark of SHAAM. Signs in particular is both catchy and deceptively profound. Subhan Allah has an infectious beat, while the words outline the five pillars of Islam - children will find it particularly enjoyable and educational. SallAllahu a'la Muhammad takes a classic Arabic nasheed and transforms it into a great, rousing English song. The Arabic tracks Antum Muradi and especially Salawaat meanwhile serve to remind the listener how effortlessly SHAAM can switch between languages and between traditional and contemporary styles of rendition.

SHAAM - Mawlid at Abbey Road

2008-06-03T14:02:00.003+01:00

On a hot summer’s day in July 2004 SHAAM, resplendent in their white thobes stepped into the world’s most famous studio: EMI Abbey Road Studios, St. John’s Wood, London. Live in session in Studio 2, they performed four of their classical Arabic sets as they would at a Mawlid or gathering in remembrance and commemoration of God and His Last Prophet (SAW).

SHAAM - Mercy Like the Rain

2008-06-03T13:59:00.002+01:00

This album was the first international release of the UK's most famous nasheed group SHAAM and went onto become one of the best selling nasheed albums of all time. Critically acclaimed, the album includes the delightful 'Mercy like the Rain' together with crowd favourites 'Jashne Aamede Rasool' and 'Kulama Nadayt Yahu'. It also features the profound 'Mowlaya Sali' which is derived from the Qasidah Burdah of Imam al-Busiri and performed in the Damascan style.

Sami Yusuf - Al-Mu'allim

2008-06-02T11:49:00.002+01:00

Al-Mu'allim is a compilation of groundbreaking nasheeds by Sami Yusuf. It is intended to provide an Islamic alternative for the Muslim youth that is vibrant and enjoyable to listen to. It features the highest standards of composition, singing, sound production and engineering.

Sami Yusuf - My Ummah (Percussion Version)

2008-06-02T11:47:00.002+01:00

My Ummah is a genre transcending album with melodies and lyrics that grab you after the very first listen-through. Clearly, Sami’s uniqueness is the special mix of different cultures and artistic influences that he beautifully blends into amazing songs not limited by narrow genres, but seamlessly combining several with ease. My Ummah has all the ingredients to become another worldwide success, inshallah. The new album deals with – amongst other things - issues such as unity, spirituality, sisters’ struggle to wear the scarf, terrorism, human brotherhood, faith, and songs about Allah and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Sami Yusuf - My Ummah (Music Version)

2008-06-02T11:45:00.002+01:00

Sami Yusuf's My Ummah is a genre transcending album with melodies and lyrics that grab you after the very first listen-through. Clearly, Sami’s uniqueness is the special mix of different cultures and artistic influences that he beautifully blends into amazing songs not limited by narrow genres, but seamlessly combining several with ease. My Ummah has all the ingredients to become another worldwide success, inshallah. The new album deals with – amongst other things - issues such as unity, spirituality, sisters’ struggle to wear the scarf, terrorism, human brotherhood, faith, and songs about Allah and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).

Outland's Official

2008-06-02T11:25:00.004+01:00

Outlandish - Bread & Barrels of Water

2008-06-02T11:24:00.002+01:00

Outlandish - Closer Than Veins

2008-06-02T11:07:00.003+01:00

2006 Issued International Edition of the Third Studio Album from the Danish Award Winning Hip Hop Trio, Originally Issued in their Home Country in 2005. With this Album, They Move Beyond their Hip Hop Roots to Fashion Songs in World Groove Styles Dealing with the Melancholy Joys of Life as Well as Social Indignation. Their Sound is More Versatile Than Ever, Thanks to a Self Confidence Built by their First Two Album Successes and Has Enabled them to Explore and Incorporate Other Styles of Music.

Native Deen - Not Afraid to Stand Alone

2008-06-01T22:21:00.002+01:00

The world-renowned Muslim hip-hop group Native Deen release its sophomore album titled "Not Afraid to Stand Alone." The new album features 16 tracks of fusion, R&B and hip hop sounds throughout. Native Deen ranked as one of the Top 5 bands in its genre on MySpace brings a melodic high energy sound that can be appreciated by people of all races, religions and ethnicities. Native Deen's decision to solely use percussion instruments throughout "Not Afraid to Stand Alone" has lead to the creation of one of the most evocative audio efforts of the year. With powerful beats and thought-provoking lyrics, "Not Afraid to Stand Alone" will strike a chord with fans of hip-hop and R&B. The album also includes the remix of "M.U.S.L.I.M" and features the single "Stand Alone".

Native Deen - Deen You Know

2008-06-01T21:51:00.006+01:00

This is the long awaited debut album of Native Deen. Every track is sure to show you the talent of mixing Nasheed with a Hip hop flavor. Even those fans who have followed Native Deen from MYNA Raps will be excited to hear new hits and remixes. With a total of 11 tracks, this album has it all. Songs that will relax you, raps that will inspire you, and a message of truth that will charge up your day!

Khaleel Muhammad - Dhikr of Life

2008-06-01T16:24:00.004+01:00

The sophmore release from the 'soul brother' of nasheed. Featuring 10 soulful tracks, this album is sure to uplift your spirit and soothe your mind. Recorded in Malaysia in the summer of 2005, Dhikr of Life is a perfect blend of eastern and western influences.

Khaleel Muhammad - Heaven

2008-06-01T16:19:00.003+01:00

Heaven pushes out the creative envelope and is a distinctive contribution to the growing English nasheed genre. Taking traditional sounds, themes and sentiments, Khaleel adds his own rich harmonies and contemporary style nurtured through years of listening to mainstream western artists and blends them into well crafted, wonderful, memorable nasheeds. And all this using voice and percussion only! (Though you'd be forgiven for thinking there's other instruments on there too.) The album begins with the sounds of the jungle and Africa as Khaleel introduces us to 'Bilal - son of Africa' and the story of the companion Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him) and his distinctive contribution of the Adhan or Call to Prayer. And its finale is the title track 'Heaven' which encapsulates one believer's hopes and prayers. All in all a truly remarkable album that has something for everyone and is bound to be a best seller.

Kamal Uddin - Illallah

2008-06-01T13:17:00.004+01:00

Kamaluddin the Quran Hafiz and Nasheed teacher shows his talent in his second breathe-taking album Illallah with twelve beautiful tracks which include the 99 Names of Allah and some Quran recitation.

Kamal Uddin - In the Name of Allah

2008-06-01T13:12:00.005+01:00

The debut album by inspirational nasheed singer Kamal Uddin. Contains instrument-free songs as well as Qur'anic recitation.

Outlandish

2008-06-01T11:41:00.004+01:00

Outlandish is a Danish hip-hop group based in Denmark. Formed in 1997, they consist of Isam Bachiri (born in Denmark and of Moroccan background), Waqas Ali Qadri (born in Denmark and of Pakistani background), and Lenny Martinez (from Honduras). All three members are religious, with Isam and Waqas being devout Muslims, and Lenny being catholic.

Outlandish's R&B/Hip-hop/Rap/soul music takes influences from their various backgrounds (Arab, Persiani, and Latin music), and although their songs are primarily in English, they usually feature lyrics in Spanish, Urdu, Danish, and Arabic. All these influences make the music of Outlandish somewhat unique and this is easy to notice from the variety of genres covered in their albums. Outlandish often include themes about Islam and contemporary issues facing young Muslims in the west in their music, and sometimes their songs define a nasheed-like unique genre.

Their single "Pacific To Pacific" was in connection with an Amnesty International charity event. Next came the single "Saturday Night", a song that was later to be included on the soundtrack for the Danish movie Pizza King. These singles were the prelude to their first album Outland's Official (2000) which was however only released in Denmark. The hit song "Walou" was later included on their second album Bread and Barrels of Water.

Singles from their even more successful second album Bread And Barrels Of Water (2003) made the most impact on the music charts. Hit singles included "Aicha" (first made famous by Khaled) which made it to number one in the USA and Germany and received a lot of airplay across many Asian countries. The video to "Aicha" also won a best music video award. "Guantanamo" also made a strong impression on the European charts. An old Hindi chorus running through "Peelo" made it a smash hit amongst Indians and Pakistanis living in the West.

Zain Bhikha

2008-06-01T00:01:00.007+01:00

Zain was born in 1974 in Pretoria, South Africa where he started singing from a young age, though entertaining family and friends was as far as he went. In 1994, Zain entered a singing competition on a local radio station. From thousands of entries, he won the competition. This success led to his first album, 'A Way of Life' (1994)

It soon became a rousing success amongst the South African Muslim community. Thus came 'Praise to the Prophet (saw)' (1996), followed at yearly intervals by 'Fortunate is he' (1997) and 'The Journey' (1998).

All proved extremely popular and began to filter abroad. And so it was that Yusuf came across one of Zain's albums and invited him to London to work with him. The result was 'A is for Allah' (2000), a double album, primarily spoken word, which featured Zain singing 7 of the 8 songs. Later that year, two compilation albums 'Children of Heaven' and 'Towards the Light' (both 2000), featuring re-mixed songs, were released by Jamal Records.

It was while promoting these compilations in Turkey that he was introduced to and recorded with Hasan Kiliçatan. In 2001 he released 'Faith' with a guest appearance from his friend Dawud Wharnsby-Ali. Zain is married with 2 children.

Zain has travelled extensively in 2002-03 singing his songs to audiences around the World.

Yusuf Islam

2008-05-28T13:10:00.005+01:00

The journey of Yusuf back to making music has taken 28 long years. The millions who bought the records he made as Cat Stevens back in the '60s and '70s always hoped that one day, the world would again hear his mellow voice and intimate, thought-provoking songs. There were times when they feared it would never happen. Now the long wait is finally over and those wishes have come true.

The path that led to his first collection of new songs since 1978 represents one of the most remarkable tales of our time. To say that An Other Cup picks up exactly where he left off would be to ignore the life-changing significance of the spiritual quest that has taken him from youthful pop singer to arguably the best-known and most widely respected figure in British Muslim society today. And yet listen to the songs and there is so much that is familiar. His voice still has the same rich, warm patina, he has lost none of his ability to conjure a memorable melody and his songwriting articulates our profound needs and emotions more eloquently than ever.

"When I picked up the guitar again it was like a floodgate," he says. "Ideas and melodies floated in without effort. The novelty of the whole process, searching for forgotten chords, inspired me; it made it feel the simple joy of being back as an amateur - with nothing much to lose."

Co-produced by Yusuf and Rick Nowells (whose credits include working with Madonna, Rod Stewart, Dido and The Corrs) and with guitarist Alun Davis who played on many of his classic albums back in tandem, the record sounds anything but amateur. Yet you know what he means for after so long away, the album has a freshness and vibrancy more usually associated with a debut than someone who is this year celebrating the 40th anniversary of his first hit.

"Most of the songs were written over the past two years, "he reveals." Others were actually written during the recording sessions and some are the result of a musical I've been working on called Moonshadow. A few are old friends left over from way back when, but unvisited in many years."

The story of Yusuf's early career as Cat Stevens is well-enough known and has become - although he will hate the phrase - the stuff of pop legend. Born Steven Georgiou into a Greek-Cypriot and Swedish family household, he grew up in London and attended a Roman Catholic school. He had his first pop hit before he was out of his teens with I Love My Dog and followed it with further hits such as Matthew & Son.

Then in 1968 when he appeared to have it all, he was struck down with a life-threatening disease. It was to prove to be a key moment in his life. "I was working three shows a night and overdoing everything and it resulted in me contracting tuberculosis," he recalls. "Because I was close to death, I started to think more purposefully about the meaning of life and why we are here. That was the beginning of my search for something beyond, that eventually led me on a long journey to find out"

After a lengthy period of recovery, he re-emerged in 1970 with the album Mona Bone Jakon and a new, more reflective style. He followed with Tea For The Tillerman (1970) and Teaser And The Firecat (1971), albums that defined the sensitive singer-songwriter and inspired a generation of bedsit troubadours. Meanwhile, songs such as Peace Train and Morning Has Broken reflected the inner quest he had already embarked upon.

"I was always seeking and my songs reflect that very clearly," he says today. "I was looking beyond the surface of the material world and wanted to find some higher truth. I started to study different religions - Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Zen, even numerology and astrology. I was looking everywhere. If you delve into my songs and lyrics you will find the narrative of my life - where I was going, what I was thinking, what I was feeling. But above all you will see there were a lot of questions and a lot answers I was seeking."

He continued to express his search through music on albums such as Catch Bull At Four (1972), Foreigner (1973) and Buddha and The Chocolate Box (1974). Then in 1976 his brother gave him a copy of The Koran. "I began to read it and found a totally unique form of revelation in terms of the communication between God and man," he recalls.

Another of the turning points that have punctuated his life came shortly after when he was swimming off the coast of Malibu in California. "I was in the ocean and suddenly I'd lost it, I had no power to swim any more," he remembers. "I was fighting the ocean and I had nobody with me. Yet I did have someone. I called out, 'God, if you save me I'll work for you'. A friendly wave swept me into the shore and from that arose within me a deep conviction and belief that there is a higher control over one's life."

A final album, Back To Earth, appeared in 1979 but by then he was set upon a different course, giving up music to follow the path of Islam and changing his name to reflect his new-found faith. "To some people it may have seemed like an enormous jump," he admits. "But for me it was a gradual dawning and my songs had already primed me for it. Anyway, I always had a fondness for the name Joseph."

He has often been asked why he gave up music so completely and did not find a way to accommodate his faith and his career. "Interestingly, I gave an interview in 1980 to a Muslim magazine and they asked me about music and the future and I said I'd suspended my musical activities for fear that it may divert me from the true path," he recalls. "But I also added that I couldn't be dogmatic and say I'll never make music again. There's nothing in the Koran that says music is forbidden, yet when I looked at the music business I realised it was definitely a negative infringement on what I wanted from my spiritual life. I didn't want to have to worry about it, so for me that meant giving away my guitars and getting down to the job of living, starting the charitable work I wanted to do, and having a family life."

Since his conversion the royalties from his old records have been channelled into his charity work and the Islamic schools he set up in North London. Over the years, his actions and beliefs as a Muslim have often been misunderstood and misrepresented by the media and controversy has at times engulfed him. He accepts this as a reflection of how extremists on both sides have attempted to use Islam as a combatant in a global struggle. "It may come as news to some, but the word Islam itself derives from the word peace," he points out. "That is the heart and soul of the religion and is what I've always followed. Other horrendous events that have taken place mean that it's now necessary to educate people that this religion is based on spiritual love, unity and tolerance. I think that I've made that journey and perhaps I can help others to an understanding that the vast majority of Muslims simply want to live a good life and be at peace with the rest of the world. Today I am in a unique position as a looking glass through which Muslims can see the west and the west can see Islam, and it is important for me to be able to help bridge the cultural gaps others are sometimes frightened to cross."

It's a role that led to him recently being given the European Man of Peace award (voted for by Nobel laureates and presented by Mikhail Gorbachev) - and which has now finally led him back to music and his first batch of new songs since 1978. One of his most famous songs in the '70s was Father and Son, a dialogue across two generations, and intriguingly it was his own son who was the catalyst in his picking up a guitar again. "My son has got tremendous musical talent and I didn't even know that," he recounts. "He had brought a guitar back into the house and there it was. One morning, after everybody had prayed and gone back to sleep, the guitar was lying on the couch and I picked it up and found I still remembered the chords. Then I started to sing along to some of the tunes and the words that I'd been writing recently and said, 'Hey! I think I have a job to do'. That's' how I got the guitar back. It felt like I was being helped to do it. I can't describe it any other way."

That was two years ago. Now the job's done and the new songs rank among the best he's ever written. Many of them are deeply autobiographical, such as Heaven/Where True Love Goes, which alludes to his fateful swim all those years ago in Malibu ("if a storm should come and you face a wave that may be the chance for you to be saved"). One track Whispers from a Spiritual Garden includes a poem inspired by the 13th century Sufi mystic, Jalaluddin Rumi.

One Day At A Time is blessed with one of his loveliest melodies, its gentle acoustics perfectly matched by the song's equally gentle philosophy. Maybe There's A World boasts another memorable melody and a visionary lyric that - like John Lennon's Imagine - dreams of a better world "borderless and wide, where people move from place to place and nobody's taking sides. "There's even an extraordinary cover of Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood with a dramatic string arrangement, in which it's impossible not to hear Yusuf's own commentary on the way his religion and spiritual conviction have sometimes been misrepresented and misconstrued.

Fascinatingly, the new material sits perfectly alongside Greenfields, Golden Sands, a never-released song he wrote in 1968 and which might have found its way on to Mona Bone Jakon. "Good songs never die," Yusuf says. After having written Greenfields in 1968, some ten years later he recalls hearing his very same words mirrored by John Lennon in his dreamer's anthem, Imagine. "It was comforting to know I was not the only one holding on to dreams. Most of the songs are inspired by the urge to raise human consciousness and seek to find a better world - or make one," he reasons. "In that respect, you can definitely see a clear stream between some of the old songs of the idealistic 60's and 70's and the new."

Ultimately, the reason for his return, he says, is simple. "The language of song is simply the best way to communicate the powerful winds of change which brought me to where I am today, and the love of peace still passing through my heart. I feel gifted to have that ability still within me. I never wanted to get involved in politics because that essentially separates people, whereas music has the power to unify, and is so much easier than for me than to give a lecture."

At this he smiles knowingly. "You can argue with a philosopher, but you can't argue with a good song. And I think I've got a few good songs."

Charitable Work
Since converting to Islam and leaving the music business 28 years ago, Yusuf has channeled the royalties from his Cat Stevens records to charitable causes, including a string of Muslim schools he personally established in London. His pioneering work resulted in a landmark decision by the British government to certify and support Islamic education throughout the country.

His U.N. registered charity, Small Kindness, provides humanitarian relief to orphans and families in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and other regions. He is also one of the few individuals to finance women to attend university in Baghdad.

He donated the royalties from the Cat Stevens Box Set, released in October 2001, to charity - with half going to The September 11th Fund and the remainder to orphans and homeless families in underdeveloped countries.

Controversy - Salman Rushdie
Yusuf's celebrity has made him a media and government target. Over the years, his beliefs and actions have often been misunderstood and misrepresented. He accepts this as a reflection of how extremists on both sides have attempted to use Islam as a combatant in a global struggle.

Yusuf was not heard from in public for a decade until 1989, when it was erroneously reported that he supported the death sentence ordered by the Ayatollah Khomeini against novelist Salman Rushdie for writing "The Satanic Verses." It was what he calls a "monstrous myth":

Yusuf was speaking to students at a university in London about his journey to Islam when he was asked about the fatwa (Islamic legal pronouncement) calling for the death of Rushdie. "Of course, I was going to be a prime target for a question on this issue," so he responded with a simple statement of what he understood at the time of Muslim law. "I was simply a new Muslim who had stated something which I considered quite plain and obvious. If you were to ask a Bible student what the Ten Commandments are, you would expect him to repeat them honestly, and you wouldn't blame him for doing so..."

"What I said was that, like the Bible, the Koran defines blasphemy without repentance as being a capital offense. And that's all I stated. I never supported the fatwa. It was very sad to see such irresponsibility from the 'free press' and I was totally abhorred. I released a statement the very next day after I read the headlines, completely contradicting what they'd said, but that never got the headlines. Of course, once the damage is done, everybody perceives you for what they've seen on the front page. It was a matter of me learning the hard way."

Controversy - "No-Fly" List
In September 2004, Yusuf was on a United Airlines flight from London to Washington when the plane was diverted to Maine because he had apparently been mistaken for someone on the post-9/11 "no fly" list. He was deported back to England the following day, and an international controversy was provoked. "It was like I was reading a script where I was the star, and I didn't even know what the plot was and how it was going to end. Perhaps it was about the fact that my name happens to carry my religion with it."

When The Sun and The Sunday Times in England published articles agreeing with the U.S.'s actions, Yusuf sued the newspapers for libel. He received a substantial settlement from both papers, along with published apologies and acknowledgements that he had never supported terrorism. He donated his settlement to help orphans of the Asian tsunami.

"It seems to be the easiest thing in the world these days to make scurrilous accusations against Muslims," he said at the time. "In my case, it directly impacts my relief work and damages my reputation as an artist."

"Man For Peace" Award
Acclaimed around the globe for his devotion to peace and charity, Yusuf has received a series of prestigious awards for his life's work. He was named as the 2004 "Man for Peace," voted for by a committee of all Nobel peace laureates and presented by Mikhail Gorbachev.
Islam And Peace
"It may come as news to some, but the word Islam itself derives from the word peace," Yusuf points out. "That is the heart and soul of the religion and is what I've always followed. Other horrendous events that have taken place mean that it's now necessary to educate people that this religion is based on spiritual love, unity, and tolerance. I think that I've made that journey, and perhaps I can help others to an understanding that the vast majority of Muslims simply want to live a good life and be at peace with the rest of the world. Today I am in a unique position as a looking glass through which Muslims can see the west and the west can see Islam, and it is important for me to be able to help bridge the cultural gaps others are sometimes frightened to cross."

The Return To Music
He has often been asked why he gave up music so completely and did not find a way to accommodate his faith and his career. "I gave an interview in 1980 to a Muslim magazine and they asked me about music and the future, and I said I'd suspended my musical activities for fear that it may divert me from the true path," he recalls. "But I also added that I couldn't be dogmatic and say I'll never make music again. There's nothing in the Koran that says music is forbidden; yet when I looked at the music business I realised it was definitely a negative infringement on what I wanted from my spiritual life. I didn't want to have to worry about it, so for me that meant giving away my guitars and getting down to the job of living, starting the charitable work I wanted to do, and having a family life."

Ultimately, he says, the reason for his return to pop music is simple. "The language of song is simply the best way to communicate the powerful winds of change which brought me to where I am today, and the love of peace still passing through my heart. I feel gifted to have that ability still within me. I never wanted to get involved in politics because that essentially separates people, whereas music has the power to unify, and is so much easier for me than to give a lecture."

Background: His Path To Islam
Although Cat Stevens's conversion to Islam and departure from making music 28 years ago took the world by surprise, it was actually the culmination of a decade-long spiritual quest. "To some people it may have seemed like an enormous jump," he says. "But for me it was a gradual dawning, and my songs had already primed me for it."

In 1968, having already achieved pop stardom in his native UK, his career was suddenly derailed when he contracted tuberculosis. "Because I was close to death, I started to think more purposefully about the meaning of life and why we are here," he says. "That was the beginning of my search for something beyond, that eventually led me on a long journey to find out."

Having spent a year in recovery, he returned to recording with a new introspection and sensitivity. Throughout his hugely successful career in the 1970s, "I was always seeking, and my songs reflect that very clearly," he says today. "I was looking beyond the surface of the material world and wanted to find some higher truth."

A major turning point in his life came while he was swimming off the coast of Malibu, California. "I was in the ocean and suddenly I'd lost it, I had no power to swim any more," he remembers. "I was fighting the ocean and I had nobody with me. Yet I did have someone. I called out, 'God, if you save me I'll work for you.' A friendly wave swept me in to shore and from that arose within me a deep conviction and belief that there is a higher control over one's life."

In 1976 his brother gave him a copy of the Koran. "I began to read it and found a totally unique form of revelation in terms of the communication between God and man," he recalls. "Today what some people think about Islam is something completely different form what I discovered when I started reading the Koran. It was that final discovery of the Koran and the message it contained which brought me home and from that moment my thoughts and all the things I had been leading to made sense." -Bio and Facts Courtesy of Buzztone.

Cat Stevens, born Steven Demetre Georgiou, was the son of a Swedish mother and a Greek father who ran a restaurant in London. He became interested in folk music and rock & roll in his teens while attending Hammersmith College and in 1965 began performing under the name Steve Adams. Mike Hurst, a former member of the folk-pop group the Springfields, who had become a record producer, heard him and took him into a recording studio to cut his composition "I Love My Dog." This demo caused Decca Records to sign him under the name Cat Stevens and assign him to its newly formed Deram subsidiary. "I Love My Dog" reached the British charts in October 1966, peaking in the Top 40. Stevens' next single, "Matthew & Son," entered the charts in January 1967 and just missed getting to number one (in America, it grazed the bottom of the charts). It was another self-written effort, and Stevens' reputation as a writer was further enhanced by the success of his song "Here Comes My Baby," which was recorded by the Tremeloes and entered the British charts in February, reaching the Top Five. (In America, it peaked just outside the Top Ten.)

Stevens' third single, "I'm Gonna Get Me a Gun," entered the British charts in March and reached the Top Ten, preceded by his debut album, Matthew & Son, also a Top Ten entry. In May, P.P. Arnold got into the British charts with Stevens' composition "The First Cut Is the Deepest," peaking in the Top 20. (Ten years later, Rod Stewart topped the U.K. charts and reached the U.S. Top 20 with his revival of the song. Sheryl Crow revived it for an American Top 20 hit in 2003.) Stevens' fourth single, "A Bad Night," was in the charts in August, peaking in the Top 20. That was a disappointment, considering his recent success, and his next records did even worse: "Kitty," his fifth single, barely made the charts in December, while New Masters, his second album, didn't chart at all. Even worse, in March 1968, Stevens contracted tuberculosis and was hospitalized for three months. He spent a year recuperating. After the failure of an intended comeback single, "Where Are You," released in July 1969, he parted ways with Deram.

Disillusioned by his experience in the music business, Stevens began writing more personal, introspective material. He signed a new contract with Island Records and released his third album, Mona Bone Jakon, in April 1970. Drawn from the album, the single "Lady D'Arbanville" was issued in June 1970 and became his third Top Ten hit in the U.K., causing Mona Bone Jakon to chart modestly in July. Stevens' talent as a songwriter for others had not deserted him; in August, Jimmy Cliff entered the British charts with his composition "Wild World," reaching the Top Ten. With a backlog of material, Stevens had a second Island album, Tea for the Tillerman, out in November; it made the U.K. Top 20. In America, where his Island recordings were licensed to A&M Records, Mona Bone Jakon had not charted, but Tea for the Tillerman marked his American LP chart debut in February 1971, followed shortly by the single release of his own recording of "Wild World," which appeared on the album; it peaked in the Top 20. With that, Stevens suddenly became a major star in the U.S. Tea for the Tillerman reached the Top Ten and went gold; Mona Bone Jakon finally reached the charts (it was belatedly certified gold in 1976); and Deram reissued Matthew & Son and New Masters as a two-LP set, which also charted. Stevens was hailed as one of the most important figures in the currently popular folk-rock singer/songwriter trend, along with James Taylor, Carole King, and others.

In June 1971, Stevens released a new single, "Moon Shadow," which made the Top 40 in the U.S. and the U.K. This was followed in September by "Peace Train," which hit the pop Top Five and reached number one in the easy listening charts in the U.S., just in advance of Stevens' fifth album, Teaser and the Firecat. An immediate gold-record seller, the LP just missed the top of the U.S. charts and hit the Top Five in the U.K. In addition to "Moon Shadow" and "Peace Train," it contained "Morning Has Broken," an adaptation of a hymn, which became Stevens' second consecutive easy listening number one and reached the pop Top Ten on both sides of the Atlantic. Meanwhile, Deram compiled another collection of juvenilia, Very Young and Early Songs, which peaked in the U.S. Top 100 in early 1972, as did a belated American release of the single "Where Are You."

Stevens contributed new and old songs to the film Harold and Maude, a black comedy that became a cult success after its release in 1972, though no soundtrack album was released. (The previously unreleased songs from the film finally turned up on his album Footsteps in the Dark: Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 in 1984.) He also toured and worked on his sixth album, Catch Bull at Four. A slightly harder-rocking effort, the LP, released in October 1972, represented Stevens' commercial peak: it hit number one in the U.S. and just missed duplicating that feat in the U.K., earning gold-record status immediately. Different singles from the album were released in the two countries, in the U.S. "Sitting" and in the U.K. "Can't Keep It In"; both reached the Top 20.

By 1973, Stevens was again beginning to show signs of the strain of being a pop star, even if he didn't become physically ill. For tax reasons, he left the U.K. for a year and moved to Brazil, but he donated the money he would have paid in taxes to charity. He performed less often and stopped granting interviews. In June, he released a new single, "The Hurt," which made the U.S. Top 40. It was followed in August by his seventh album, Foreigner, an ambitious effort that featured an entire LP side given over to a musical suite. The record was another massive commercial success, peaking inside the Top Five in the U.S. and U.K. and going gold instantly. His major appearance for the year was a 90-minute performance on the American TV show In Concert in November.

Stevens issued his eighth album, Buddha and the Chocolate Box, in March 1974, preceded by the single "Oh Very Young," a Top Ten hit. As usual, the album made the U.S. and U.K. Top Five and went gold upon release. In July, Stevens released an independent summer single, a revival of Sam Cooke's "Another Saturday Night," and it made the U.S. Top Ten and the U.K. Top 20. In November, A&M extracted "Ready" from Buddha and the Chocolate Box and released it as a single that made the Top 40. Stevens' Greatest Hits LP was released in June 1975 and predictably was a big success, eventually selling over three million copies in the U.S. alone. "Two Fine People," a new song featured on it, reached the American Top 40. Stevens had his ninth regular album release, Numbers, ready by November. As if in acknowledgment that his greatest hits were now behind him, the album only made the Top 20 in the U.S., though it was certified gold within a couple of months, did not generate a Top 40 single, and missed the charts entirely in the U.K. Stevens took 18 months to deliver his tenth album, Izitso, in May 1977. It restored some of his commercial clout, hitting the U.S. Top Ten and being certified gold in a month, while reaching the U.K. Top 20, and the single "(Remember the Days of The) Old School Yard" made the Top 40 in America and charted in Great Britain.

On December 23, 1977, Stevens formally became a Muslim and adopted the name Yusuf Islam. Notwithstanding this change, there was an 11th and final Cat Stevens album, Back to Earth, released in December 1978; it sold modestly. With that, Yusuf Islam retired from the pop music business. He entered into an arranged marriage that eventually produced five children, auctioned off his possessions, and founded a Muslim school near London. He was not widely heard from for another ten years, until he shocked admirers at the end of the '80s by supporting the death sentence ordered by the Ayatollah Khomeini against novelist Salman Rushdie for writing the book -The Satanic Verses. Some "classic rock" radio stations discontinued playing him as a result, and 10,000 Maniacs, who had covered "Peace Train" on their In My Tribe album in 1987, had it removed from the record. He later claimed that he had been manipulated by the media, who were looking for a statement from a prominent British Muslim, but he did not disavow his statement. Nevertheless, his music remained popular. In 1990, for example, the compilation album The Very Best of Cat Stevens reached the U.K. Top Five. A different album with the same title charted in the U.S. in the spring of 2000 as Yusuf Islam undertook a promotional tour in connection with the reissues of remastered versions of his Cat Stevens albums. Then in 2006, nearly 30 years after the final Cat Stevens studio album, Islam released a new studio effort, An Other Cup. William Ruhlmann, All Music Guide

Wahied Kannemeyer

2008-05-28T12:56:00.003+01:00

Growing up as a child in the sprawling Cape Town suburb of Mitchells Plain, Wahied Kannemeyer fondly remembers "visiting a different house" every Thursday evening, to participate in the Dhikrullah gatherings, known as the Rātib al-Haddad. It was at those gatherings, that Wahied’s knowledge and love, for what he calls “melody”, was nurtured.

Wahied first ventured into Qasā’id in 1997 with the Blue Downs-based qasidah group, Al-Badr. In 1998, he joined the renowned Cape qasidah group the Cape Malaysians following his return from study at the University of Al-Azhar in Egypt, home to numerous acclaimed Qur’raa. It is in Egypt that the Arabian melody greatly influenced him.

Talib al-Habib

2008-05-28T01:09:00.005+01:00

Talib al-Habib was born in London in 1976 and grew up in Manchester, before moving to South Africa with his family for a ten year stay. It was here that he met his spiritual guide and began traversing the path of traditional Islam - the methodology of uniting the practical, intellectual and experiential facets of religion - under his instruction. He later returned to the UK in early 2002.

His distinctive style of inshad arises from a ten year childhood association with the Manchester Boy’s Choir, where he received vocal and technical training.

He began composing spiritual poetry and songs at the age of sixteen, and has continued to do so ever since. In early 2004, he was encouraged to compile a collection of English-language spiritual songs, which has culminated in ‘Songs of Innocence,’ an intensely personal journey into the experiential dimensions of Islam. He is also an author of three books of Islamic spirituality and ethics.

Talib has been a student of the sacred sciences for several years, which he pursues both through the traditional method of sitting with a shaykh, as well as through more contemporary approaches. He hopes to one day continue his studies at the classical centres of learning. Talib al-Habib is a takhallus (pen-name) meaning, ‘seeker of the beloved.’ Currently, he lives in the West Midlands, where he practises as a Medical Doctor specialising in Psychiatry. He is married with two young daughters.

Shahid Falahi - Musafir

2008-05-28T00:42:00.003+01:00

From a very early stage of his life, Shahid developed a keen interest in art and culture. Thus he started writing poetry and songs in his early teens. Since then he has written, composed and sung a variety of numbers. His melodic voice has a fine balance of sweetness and resonance in it and carries much emotion and appeal. His international debut Album "Musafir" is a blend of concepts and styles, sung in English, Arabic, Bengali and Urdu. This entertaining and uplifting album is truly a trendsetter.

Shaheed Alkawn

2008-05-27T19:58:00.004+01:00

Shaheed Alkawn was born Shane Conning in September 1978 in Durban, South Africa. He was raised and educated within a strong Catholic background. As a young man Shaheed was very reflective and his keen sense of perception and thirst for knowledge would not allow him to accept the Bible as the word of God. Thus began his tireless search for the truth. After months of researching different ideologies and religions, his search culminated with his acceptance of the Qur’an as the word of God and his subsequent embrace of Islam as a way of life, in 1995 at the age of 16.Although still a teen, Shaheed chose to put all other aspirations on hold and began his mission in the true purpose of believers to spread the word of God. Being a talented and creatively gifted person, he approached the work of da'wah in an innovative manner that has captivated young people wherever he has been and has been a powerful inspirational force to others.

Coming from a musical background he realised the addictive force of control that music has over the masses, and thus honed his talents to deliver the Message in an optimal manner. Shaheed has performed across South Africa with his unique brand of music, and released this his first, much awaited album in October 2002 in that country. The album was met with much acclaim and created an unprecedented furore around his style of Islamic rap. Shaheed chose rap as it is infectious, trendy and an effective tool in getting a message across through music. In a recent interview, he reflected that, 'My rapping is actually a sermon, but accompanied with rhythm and sound, young people are drawn to hear what they otherwise would not.'Another unique feature of Shaheed's music is that it is unaccompanied by any musical instruments. His versatility as an artist enables him to accompany his vocals with a complex system of beat-boxing and harmony that has marvelled many.

Undoubtedly, he is amazingly accomplished for such a young artist, yet for Shaheed the music is not everything; it is only a tool towards a greater goal of inviting to submission (Islam) through the creation of an alternative youth culture that is independent of vice, drugs and intoxicants. 'Freeing the mind, realizing our potentials, and fulfilling our individual obligations to God is what it's really about,' says Shaheed, and he hopes his efforts are an encouragement to other Muslims to take up this cause.Towards this goal of an alternate youth culture, Shaheed has also founded a nationwide Islamic martial arts society in South Africa, called Albadaaha (the natural way), which provides youth with an alternative healthy lifestyle. Based on a fun, acrobatic, fluid, martial art called Capoeira, Albadaaha is not only a martial arts academy but a social platform for interaction in a manner that does not conflict with the Islamic way of life.

Shaam

2008-05-27T19:41:00.006+01:00

SHAAM came together in late 1997 seeking to present and re-interpret traditional Islamic songs known as nasheeds - a genre that originates from the time of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). These spiritually uplifting songs seek to praise Allah and His final Messenger. They are distinguished by their emphasis upon vocals and percussion only, with stringed and wind instruments being shunned in deference to orthodox Islamic precepts. It is this style of song that SHAAM have mastered over the past few years.

The group, composed of Haroon Bashir, Mahmood Norris, Yasin Alam and Imran Bashir - all young men from Birmingham, England - took their name from the place that had inspired them: Syria (in Arabic, Shaam). All had at some stage or another studied and visited Damascus and there had come into contact with groups who would sing timeless nasheeds with moving lyrics, accompanied by the rousing and intricate beating of the duff, a traditional one-sided hand drum. Though having been taught this art by some of the best teachers, alongside studies in more formal Islamic subjects, the idea of forming their own group was not an obvious one. It was only the encouragement of learned people, family and friends, who, impressed at their grasp of this unique, mainly Arabic art by non-Arabs, pushed them to sing live. So what started out as a tentative foursome gradually evolved into a confident, polished quartet. It was therefore no surprise to see, in a short period of time, how popular SHAAM became as a live act touring around the British Isles performing at weddings, celebrations and events.

Presenting themselves as heirs of this unique, ancient Islamic art, SHAAM have sought to make nasheeds accessible to young and old, and, mindful of the fact that the majority of their audiences do not understand Arabic, have added Urdu and English nasheeds to their large repertoire of songs. Their stirring renditions, coupled with exquisite drumming, have led to invitations to perform in countries as far afield as the USA, Syria and Pakistan. It is no exaggeration to say hundreds of thousands have witnessed the mastery of SHAAM live and the group considers itself fortunate to count the likes of Prince Charles amongst its many admirers.

Despite hundreds of performances and many albums, SHAAM's passion for their art remains as strong as ever as they strive to make Islamic devotional songs widely accessible in a variety of languages and styles, some old and some new. Yet all the while they are aware that they are carriers of weighty words with yet weightier meaning.

Sami Yusuf

2008-05-27T19:24:00.006+01:00

Sami Yusuf is a British composer, singer and an accomplished musician. He was born in July 1980 into a musical family of Azeri origin, thus music played an integral part in his life.
Sami learnt to play several instruments at a very young age and gradually began to show a keen interest in singing and composing. He studied music at several institutions and with renowned composers and musicians including composers from the Royal Academy of Music in London, one of the world most prestigious music institutions.
Sami has been composing from a very young age and his beautiful voice is supplemented by his extensive knowledge of music theory and harmony. He has also a good understanding of the Middle Eastern modes (or Maqams).

To his credit, Sami has sold over a million copies of his debut album 'al-Mu'allim' and his second album 'My Ummah' is exceeding sales of three million copies worldwide.

Sami is a devout Muslim who sees songs as a means of promoting the message of love, mercy, peace and tolerance and encouraging the youth to be proud of their religion and identity. To date he has performed at sell out concerts in over 30 countries across the world from Istanbul to Casablanca, from USA to Germany. The concert in Turkey drew an audience of over 200,000, his biggest concert so far.

"Sami Yusuf is the biggest name in Muslim Music - anywhere" The Independent

"Islam's biggest Rock Star" - Time Magazine

Noor - All for You

2008-05-27T17:30:00.008+01:00

Noor's journey began over eight years ago when four friends were asked to perform at the opening fundraiser for an Islamic school in Riverside, California. Drawing their inspiration from well known munshids such as Abul Jood and Imad Rami, this group of friends began meeting once a month to practice songs and technique. As the number of performance requests began to increase, it became clear that the community was looking for a professional source of halal entertainment.

In their first foray outside the realm of traditional nasheed, Noor purchased an electronic keyboard to add a modern flavor to the lyrics they performed from old books of poetry. At the time, traditional nasheedï¿½a cappella-based with light percussionsï¿½was appealing mainly to first generation immigrants. The group's new sound began to attract attention from younger listeners, filling the performance halls with both young and old. With a high-quality sound system and enhanced percussions, Noor began to offer their services at weddings and Islamic conferences, expanding their reach to performances across the United States.

Noor has shared the stage with internationally known artists such as Ustadh Muhammad Abu Ratib and Sami Yusuf. These artists and others have helped make traditional nasheed mainstream by producing high quality songs with classic, wholesome lyrics and music. Noor, alongside these pioneers of modern nasheed, aims to offer Muslims around the world a hip Islamic alternative to standard commercialized music with the release of their first album, All for You.

The best of both worlds fuse in a mixture of poetic harmony, an auditory celebration of Arabic and English vocals entwined with percussion, string, and wind instruments, brought together by the common thread of faith and the love of God and His final Messenger (PBUH). Past, present, and future come together here and now to birth a new measure of sound for the discerning listener, a tranquil experience of mind, heart, and soul.

Nazeel Azami - Dunya

2008-05-27T17:08:00.006+01:00

Nazeel was born in August 1981. He was born into a Muslim family and continues to follow it having read up on it and, more importantly, having spent time with good Muslims. He grew up in London and Manchester, UK

Nazeel went to a primary school in London, which he found quite enjoyable, although he was very quick to pick up on the fact that it was a different culture to what he had experienced at home. Living within two cultures has been a major generator of concepts for his songs. He went on to secondary schools in 3 countries, and that wasn't always easy. His favourite subjects/activities during his education were using computers, technology and languages. He is currently attending Manchester university studying Physics.

Musically, his family does appreciate meaningful songs, particularly those about family, love, God, friendship and so on. One or two people have taken that interest through to become singers and producers of songs. They performed at various venues, formally and otherwise.

He never knew what he wanted to be when he grew up. But he did like to enjoy himself and have a good time with friends. He didn't think of making a profession out of singing, but loved it from a very early age. This talent he recalls was encouraged by his mother.

His musical influences start with his maternal uncle, whose songs he listened to while his mother cooked. She used to leave the cassette player running, playing the songs as well as other spiritually-inspired songs in Bengali. He heard a lot of English and even Arabic and Urdu songs. Nazeel also listened to other early 'Muslim' music like Yusuf Islam's material and some songs by Malaysian children.

These days, he has discovered many more meaningful songs that really move him. Mainly these are uplifting songs by people like: Sami Yusuf, Kareem Salama, Angelis, Garth Brooks, Raihan, Il Divo, Jackson Browne, Muhammad Husayan, Outlandish and Ronan Keating.

Nazeel is currently based in Manchester, UK. Currently he is writing some new songs for the next album, which is going fantastically well. There's so many different thoughts he has noted down and it seems impossible to merge them into songs! But he is hopeful for a development of material and style, from the previous album.

He has been taught aspects of 'Islam' since childhood, and says he considers it to have a role in his music. A role that he sees as one that will unite communities in mutual benefit rather than divide them.

His music at times has some specific messages; different people will pick up different things. Generally speaking though, the songs are about human values that have kept us going in the world. He believes these values originate from God and at other times, it is just a feeling.

In his spare time he likes to call his family, play football with friends, sitting with eminent muslim scholars, singing songs by different artists, reciting the Quran, a bit of martial arts too, eating, sleeping, etc...

In 2008, Nazeel would like to become closer to God, saying that when you get busy with life's demands, you can lose your touch when it comes to prayer and feeling the Quran. Besides that, he plans to travel and learn a language. The main goals he wishes to achieve are firstly, to read the Quran, understand it directly, and have the character to live it. Secondly, he would love to be able to read all the books of all the wisest people we know of in history!

His message for his fans is: "Pray for the world - with word and action."

Nazeel’s mother was always a source of inspiration for him to pursue creative ways to do good for himself and others. For the last several years, she suffered from a rare illness.

Nevertheless, she continued to encourage him to use his talent in reciting and singing to uplift souls including his own, alongside his other duties. When she was abroad on medical treatment, Nazeel was not able to be with her and take care of her, for a period.

A close friend suggested that he record a song and send it to her as a gift. Nazeel jumped to the idea and recorded one of her favourite songs and sent it. On hearing it, she was deeply affected, and moved to tears.

After returning to the UK for further treatment, she would often ask Nazeel to sing the song to her while she rested, even as she approached her final days. Nazeel’s mother passed away just over a year ago.

Soon more of his close friends listened to the song, and several were moved by the track. Eventually, they persuaded Nazeel to do something more so that others might also benefit in the way they did.
What you have before you is the culmination of that endeavour, Dunya, a powerful collection of songs and recitals about life as a ‘seeker’ aspiring to be at one with the world of God.

In producing Dunya, a rare combination of languages, themes and cultures have come together to reveal a unique expression — one that is sometimes painful, but, at other times, intensely joyful.

Native Deen

2008-05-27T15:47:00.009+01:00

The story of Native Deen is an inspiring one that began with three Muslim youth possessing unique talents and a passion to spread the uplifting message of Islam. Originally solo artists and active participants of their communities searching for creative ways to educate and inspire Muslim youth, today Native Deen has become a fusion of Hip-hop and R&B flavors, thrilling fans with their eclectic and unique combinations of lyrics, rhythms and sounds. The trio made up of Joshua Salaam, Abdul-Malik Ahmad and Naeem Muhammad came together in 2000 and has embarked upon a professional career in the music industry together in order to highlight issues confronting Muslims living in America.

These three young African-American men who were raised as Muslims in America have emerged as one of the leading Islamic Nasheed groups and have inspired an international fan base. Drawing their own inspiration from the message of Islam, Native Deen’s music calls listeners to keep the faith, to live better lives, and to NOT succumb to the pressures and temptations of modern society.

Native Deen uses only percussion instruments, inline with the majority Muslim opinion on the use of musical instruments. This has not hindered the group’s musical creativity but has resulted in evocative audio efforts that have resulted in sounds that are a fusion of street rap, Hip-hop & R&B. The music of Native Deen resonates with fans all over the world. Their music and positive message have been embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds, from Islamic clerics to non-Muslims.

The group has played to rave reviews throughout North America as well as Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Together, they have played some of the world's most distinguished auditoriums and performed alongside artists such as Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens), Sami Yusuf, Zain Bhika, Raihan, Dawud Wharnsby, Seven8Six, Outlandish and much more. Native Deen has performed in over 60 cities around the world inspiring Muslims and non-Muslims alike and are ranked as one of the Top Five bands in its genre on MySpace. Native Deen’s music has provided a cultural bridge by presenting Islam in a positive light to Western audiences and promoting tolerance in Muslim countries by demonstrating that there are devout, practicing Muslims in Western countries. In 2006 the group won the Mahabba Award in Dubai at an Artists’ event showcasing musicians, artists and filmmakers inspired to spread Islam through their art. Now with their second album out, the trio has reached a new height in their career.

Mesut Kurtis - Salawat

2008-05-27T15:40:00.005+01:00

Mesut Kurtis was born in July 1981. He was born and brought up in a Muslim family. He spent his childhood in Skopje, Macedonia. Mesut enjoyed his time at school a lot. It encouraged him to find out more about himself and to check out his musical abilities. He found out that there must have been a deep seated connection between him and music at a very early age. From then he went onto perform nasheeds with groups in the local mosques and conferences. As for his favourite subjects at school, he liked them all. He went onto study at an Islamic college in Skojpe that allowed him to go to the UK to study for a degree in Human Sciences with Islamic Studies.

Mesut doesn't come from a musical family although he admits that they do love to sing. Mesuts' father, who he describes as having a beautiful voice, recites the Qur'an and nasheeds in several languages and styles in a mosque. When he was younger he was a public-spirited person who wanted to help out. His only hope and wish when he grew up was to become a dove for mankind, which it still is to this day. Mesut's musical influences are Sufi, Turkish classical, Arabic and European music. There isn't one particular group or genre of music that has influenced him as Macedonia where he grew up has a multi-ethnic population.

Mesut would describe his music as having a mix influences from Eastern and Western styles. He sings mainly about putting love into peoples hearts towards Allah and Mohammad. He says in general, his music represents a way of life and its philosophy. He is currently working on new songs and practicing current songs for his concerts around the world. Islam has had a direct impact upon his music. He uses the Qur'an as an example whereby every letter has a different melody and style of pronunciation, just like the sounds of nature do on the Earth. He reflects on who "The Creator" is when working upon his music.

He likes to send out a message of despite all the bad things that surround us, people are here for one reason, which is to live and endure this. Life is good and worth living in peace, happiness, love and humanity. We need to look at things from the right perspective and point of view. Mesut considers his first album Salawat and a video clip of a well-known nasheed Al-Burdah he performed in to be his best achievement to date. He says that he could not have been able to achieve any of this without the help of Allah, and Awakening.

Mesut's plans for 2008 are to keep working on his second album for release in mid 2008, perform live more and continuing his postgraduate studies. There are two goals he wishes to achieve: becoming a professional musician and successfully completing his postgraduate studies.

In his spare time he enjoys reading, travelling, social activities and playing sport.

Salawat is a compilation of nasheeds in praise of Allah and His final Prophet Muhammad (s) by Mesut Kurtis. It was produced by the international nasheed artist and composer Sami Yusuf and a special track also features him. This album also contains the famous Burdah of Imam Al-Busairi.

Mecca2Medina

2008-05-27T15:11:00.003+01:00

Mecca2Medina was formed by Rakin he was given this advice by his Sheikh. Before that Rakin was part of UK group called Cash Crew they were one of the most sucessful groups in the UK scene. He left this group to focus more on his Islamic studies this is when Sheikh Abu Bakr stated that he should form a group that would be 100% focusing on the deen (Religion). Brothers Ishmael and Imran (The planets) were the first members of the group, later on Doaud and Abdul Karim joined.The Music created by the group is conscious Hip Hop the aim is to bring back Hip hop to the days of crews like PE and X-Clan when to educate the listener was the most important.

All of the members converted to Islam and you can hear the influence of that in their lyrics. For the last few years the group has been busy performing in Universities, colleges and theatre halls around the UK.

Khaleel Muhammad

2008-05-27T14:44:00.004+01:00

Khaleel has been ubiquitous on the Islamic media domain for years. From captivating us with his powerful graphic designs, singing harmonious melodies in the background of top nasheeds and producing audio masterpieces, there are few places you can go without seeing his name.

Best known for his innovative audio play 'The Adventures of Hakim' and providing the backing vocals to songs by Yusuf Islam and Zain Bhikha, Khaleel is far from just a nasheeds artist. He is an accomplished designer, voice-over artist, as well as prolific writer, producer and Workshop leader. His writing and production contributions include 'A Simple Guide to Prayer' and the audio story 'Salah ad-Din: Champion of the Crusades’ read by Gai Eaton and produced for Mountain of Light productions. He has provided voice over parts for documentaries and cartoons include numerous projects for Mountain of Light, cartoons ‘Habil and Qabil’ and ‘Tuva’, documentaries: ‘Historic Lands of Qur’an’ and ‘Jerusalem: Promise of Heaven’.

His successful debut album HEAVEN pushes back the creative envelope and is his distinctive contribution to the growing English nasheed genre, making him the first ‘Soul Brother’ in the UK nasheed Industry. Taking traditional sounds, themes and sentiments, Khaleel adds his own rich harmonies and contemporary style and blends them into well-crafted and memorable nasheeds. And all this using voice and percussion only!

In 2005 Khaleel travelled to Malaysia to record his second album Dhikr of Life' with world renown Abu Bakr of nasheed group Raihan.

Kamal Uddin

2008-05-27T13:40:00.003+01:00

Kamal Uddin was born on 28th June 1984. His family originates from Bangladesh, however among his family he was born in England. Kamal grew up in Hyde, a town in Greater Manchester.

In summer 1996 Kamal boarded an Islamic school in Bolton called Al Jamia-Al Islamiyya. He studied a course to memorise the whole Noble Qur'an. During the month of Ramadan in November 2000 halfway through his course, sadly his father Haji Malkas Ali passed away. By the grace of Allah at the end of 2001 Kamal finished his course and became a qualified Hafiz. Immediately after, The Hyde Jamia Mosque offered him to lead the next Ramadan prayers. At the time Kamal was only 17 years old. Having been successful he was offered to teach children at the Islamic Centre based in the Mosque and also to lead and call people to prayers. In September 2002 Kamal boarded Jamia Al-Karam in Retford to study Arabic grammar. After a year he returned back to Hyde Jamia Mosque to carry on his duties there.

Knowing at an early age his talent in reciting the Qur’an and singing Nasheeds, he opened a Nasheed class (www.nasheedclass.com) where young children can enjoy learning about Islam by singing Nasheeds and also a separate Hafiz class so he can teach others to memorise the Noble Qur’an like himself.

During January 2005, Kamal took his mother to Saudi Arabia, to perform the largest Islamic pilgrimage - Hajj. Having been inspired from his Hajj experience, Kamal started to compose his own lyrics for his first album. This was launched in August 2005 and became a huge success gaining Kamal his recognition as a Nasheed Artist.

In May 2006, due to heavy demand from his listeners all over the world, Kamal released his latest Album ‘Illallah’. This Album immediately became a bigger success selling in all leading Islamic stores. Shortly after in August, Kamal took a big step in his life and got married.

Kamal has taken part in many performances throughout the U.K and has impressed the internationally known propagator of Islam, Dr Zakir Naik, whilst performing during his talks. He has also had the honour to perform alongside other Nasheed artists such as Yahya Hawa, Ahmed Bukhatir, Zain Bhikha and many more. These were some of the artists that inspired Kamal to produce his own album. He is now working closely with IQRA Promotions, Sheffield on many new projects.

Irfan Makki - Salam

2008-05-27T13:02:00.003+01:00

A Canadian based singer/ songwriter, Irfan’s unique style of positive and spiritually uplifting music reflects his North American upbringing, combined with the sincerity of a young man raised in a home of strong faith and cultural tradition. Irfan's songs offer up vibrant imagery with the innocence of a child-like observer, and the wisdom of an elderly man - blended with world-beat percussion, South Asian rhythms and a distinctive urban R&B vocal style.

A sensitive songwriter with a humble stage presence, Irfan Makki can often be seen performing at intimate venues in his hometown of Toronto Canada. He has also toured the United Kingdom performing to audiences of thousands, sharing a stage with the likes of fellow Canadians The Fletcher Valve Drummers and US based Hip-Hop group Native Deen.

His debut CD, “Salam” offers up poems and images with the innocence of a child-like observer, and the wisdom of an elderly man - blended with world-beat percussion, South Asian rhythms and a distinctive urban R&B vocal style.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - The Days of Eid

2008-05-27T00:20:00.002+01:00

This is a new, bright array of songs and narratives reflecting the joy of the Eid Festivals - celebrated around the world in culturally diverse ways. Featuring Dawud Wharnsby, Irfan Makki, Zain Bhikha, Qatrunada and Kamran Hasan, and Saad Omar.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - The Prophet's Hands

2008-05-27T00:00:00.003+01:00

This is by far his most ambitious effort in the realm of Islamic spiritual songs, bringing together the talents of Yusuf Islam, and Zain Bhikha, It maintains the simplicity of rhythms and clarity of voice listeners have come to enjoy consistently throughout previous albums.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - The Colors of Islam

2008-05-26T23:56:00.002+01:00

"Colors of Islam" is a beautiful collection of spiritual songs by Canadian artist and educator Dawud Wharnsby Ali, the composer of "A Whisper of Peace".

In this, his second recording, listeners will find a mix of songs that celebrate Allah's signs to mankind, the diversity of the believers around the world, and more.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - Sunshine, Dust, the Messenger

2008-05-26T23:53:00.006+01:00

"Sunshine, Dust And The Messenger", the fifth collection of spiritual songs by Dawud Wharnsby-Ali, brings a new and mature style to his growing series of recordings. Aimed at adult and youth audiences, the 15-track production of narrative and song includes the recognizable Wharnsby-Ali traits which listeners have come to enjoy. Lyrical references to elements of nature and sound effect montages merge with Wharnsby-Ali's typical style of playful rhyme and meter. Past recordings (such as "Whisper Of Peace"- 1996), are alluded to through the use of occasionally reprised lyrics and voices, including the captivating Qur'anic recitation of Egyptian born qari, Gasser Auda. Yet, with all of its subtle familiarity, the overall sound of "Sunshine, Dust And The Messenger" is quite a change from what most listeners have been accustomed to hearing from the young writer. The theme of 'rhythm' is assessed from diverse angles. City sounds and song topics such as: death, piety, aging, religious struggle and the treatment of children, embellish a series of brief narratives taken from The Holy Qur'an and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - A Whisper of Peace

2008-05-26T23:49:00.003+01:00

This is a beautiful collection of songs by one of America's Favorite Muslim voices. These powerful songs with English and Arabic have tremendous sound quality. Features: 'These are the days of Eid'' (Takbir), 'Here we Come to Serve You' (Labbayk), 'A Whisper of Peace', and many others. The appeal of this album crosses generations and ethnic backgrounds.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali - Road to Madina

2008-05-26T23:46:00.004+01:00

This recording is Muslim artist Dawud Wharnsby Ali's third CD release since embracing Islam in 1993. A potpourri of songs which illustrate the character of a Mumin (believer), "Road To Madinah" features complex vocal arrangements and strong percussion which underscore songs dealing with humility, patience during hardship and reflection on one's daily actions.

"The Veil", from the Sound Vision.Com documentary "Hijab: an Act of Faith",is a Muslim woman's response to accusations that the Hijab is "oppressive", with lyrics sung by Wharnsby-Ali and co-written by Zahra Duran. "Muslim Lullaby" is a wonderful way for your little one to learn during bedtime, since it teaches the Du'a (supplication) before going to sleep, tied to a simple and gentle melody. The first official "Muslim Lullaby" is easy enough for all parents to sing! Along with recitation of Holy Qur'an, make it a family practice to end each night with this bedtime song. These are just some of the great tracks on this wonderful recording.

Ahmed Bukhatir- Light 2

2008-05-26T22:45:00.005+01:00

Nasheed album by Ahmed Bukhatir and Friends

Ahmed Bukhatir- Light

2008-05-26T22:40:00.006+01:00

Nasheed album by Ahmed Bukhatir and Friends.

Ahmed Bukhatir - Samtan

2008-05-23T12:05:00.015+01:00

Nasheeds album by Ahmed Bukhatir

Ahmed Bukhatir - Hasanat

2008-05-22T17:55:00.010+01:00

Ahmed Bukhatir's long awaited new nasheed album Hasanat, containing both English and Arabic nasheeds. Non instrumental... voice only.

Ahmed Bukhatir - Fartaqi

2008-05-22T15:36:00.006+01:00

A distinguished album from the singer Ahmed Bukhatir includes Nasheeds about the improvement in religion, the greatness of Allah Glory be to Him in his creation, the Qur'an, the Hijab and a nasheed related to the Eid festival.

This album is a must-have for all Ahmed Bukhatir listeners!

Ahmed Bukhatir - Da'ani - Dani

2008-05-22T15:23:00.004+01:00

Latest album by nasheed singer, Ahmed Bukhatir. Contains 8 brand new instrument-free nasheeds, 6 in Arabic and 2 in English. English translations of all the nasheeds will be added later.

Inayet Petker - Salutations

2008-05-10T18:56:00.006+01:00

A proven, confidant, versatile and charismatic performer, Inayet’s sweet and unique voice & style enables him to melt hearts across the cultural, racial and religious divides. His works educate, inspire and transform global audiences, touching them at their very core. Born in Zimbabwe but now residing in Pretoria, South Africa, Inayet developed his style of nasheeds while studying in the USA. He is a voice-only artist who has proven extremely popular in South Africa and is now reaching out to audiences worldwide.

Iman - Just Remember

2008-05-10T18:53:00.002+01:00

As Muslims, group members Wahied Kannemeyer, brothers Rifaat and Nizaam Moses, and Faizel Abrahams, found themselves growing up in a community which strongly adheres to its faith and traditions amidst a predominantly Western society in Cape Town, South Africa.

Besides enjoying and appreciating the tradition of Qur'anic recital, dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and qasidah early on in their lives, they were also influenced by the music of 'Western' bands as well as those groups specialising in Spanish musical tradition, including the flamenco guitar, by way of artists such as Jessie Cook, Gypsy Kings and Paco de Lucia.

Outside of Western groups, Īmān's members also enjoy and are influenced by the musical genre of Malaysian and Indonesian nasheed groups such as Raihan, Rabbani and Nowseeheart.

These influences can be appreciated in the group's ability to sing with and without musical accompaniments (acapella).

Hamza Robertson - Something About Life

2008-05-10T18:50:00.007+01:00

Hamza Robertson aka Tom Robertson was born in Oldham, Lancashire in the North-West of England. Since school through college, he involved himself in music and the performing arts. He was a part of the local theatre workshop, where he wrote music and acted in plays. He took part in a variety of bands beyond college, playing a variety of instruments and writing music. He still produces his own unique pieces.

Through his early academic career, Hamza played the keyboard and performed vocals and as such played in several bands, later becoming lead singer, keyboard player and guitarist in a band he formed with his friends. Hamza has undertaken a series of solo performances. He studied Performing Arts Popular Music for three years.

In working with Awakening, Hamza aims to take part in a new dynamics in calling to God, or ‘dawah’, in a new world, through producing songs with a positive message. He feels that too many people know too little about Islam and the beauty of its essential values, values which bring about harmony between people, as opposed to discord.

Hamza believes that music, being a powerful source of energy, can be employed to influence people toward either good or bad. He feels there is too much ‘negative music’ in the world giving people the wrong message, and bringing about within them the desire to do things which are against their inherently pure nature, i.e their ‘fitrah’.

Farzeen Nazeer - Omeid

2008-05-10T18:39:00.003+01:00

The album has a diverse mix of tracks, which look at Muslims’ role in society and the world and, probably for the first time, touches upon with issues of the environment and a Muslim’s responsibility to care for the world we live in.

The album aims to inspire people to succeed in their goals through faith and prayer. As Muslims, both individually and collectively, we have the responsibility to ensure that we protect the world we live in. We need to care for the physical environment, our fellow men and spirituality. This protection needs to rise from our faith in Allah and the pillars of faith. Each track will resonate in people’s hearts as a message of peace and inner reflection.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali

2008-05-10T18:37:00.010+01:00

Dawud (David) Wharnsby Ali (born June 27, 1972) is a Canadian singer-songwriter, poet, performer and television personality. He is the owner of folk/ world-music label and publishing entity Enter Into Peace.

Born in Kitchener, Ontario in 1972, Dawud became active in local theatre productions during his teens. By age 19 he began performing throughout Southern Ontario as a solo artist and as a member of various folk and rock groups, alongside the likes of fellow Canadian performers Paul MacLeod (Skydiggers), Danny Michel, Corey Schmidt (Scarboro Aquarium Club), Heather Chappell and Sandy McIntosh (Tristan Psionic).

In 1993, he converted to Islam.

Dawud pioneered the genre of English language nasheed (spiritual songs of a folk/world-beat style, drawn from Islamic tradition) and has released several albums since 1995, including Blue Walls and The Big Sky and Vacuous Waxing (with Canadian writer Bill Kocher).

As a world renowned children's educator, Dawud has released over 10 popular albums of children's music, including A Whisper of Peace and The Prophet's Hands. His songs released through Sound Vision are sung and taught in schools world wide.

In recent years Dawud has collaborated with the likes of Stephen Fearing, Irshad Khan, Danny Thompson, Yusuf Islam, Chris McKhool, Dale Marcell, and Zain Bhikha.

As a television personality, Dawud has hosted programs produced in conjunction with Canada's Vision TV, the National Film Board of Canada and BBC Scotland.

Ahmed Bukhatir

2008-05-10T18:33:00.014+01:00

Ahmed Bukhatir was born in Sharjah where he studied and lived all his life. He graduated in 1999 from Al-Ain University and he achieved the bachelor degree in management information system. He is currently working with his father in Bukhatir group and his family is well known and has great remarks in the development of this country.

He started singing in 1989 and his albums reached a wide fame within a short period of time. His first solo album was released in November 2001. From his albums : Fartaqi and Samtan which had very high sales in different countries in the world, plus the albums Entasaf al Lail and Al Quds Tonadeena which he participated in with other singers.

Ahmed Bukhatir participated in some Concerts and Festivals. His Premiere one was in Al Ta'awon Center in Sharjah in the year 2002 and he participated also in Al Quran al kareem competition in Um Al Quwein in the year 2003 sponsored by the ruler himself. Sheikh Abdul Rahman AlSudeis was one of the respectable attendees there.

One of his big concerts was held through the festival of Sharjah Charity Organization which was named by “Parents Obedience” which was held in the great Hall of Sharjah University in the year of 2004 and with the arrival of the Crown Prince and many of the VIP personalities in the country.

Ahmed Bukhatir gains big popularity in the Gulf area and the Arab world and seeks to spread all the Islamic thoughts to the entire world through the aiming words and the soothing melody and the distinguished performance of his.

786 - SEVEN8SIX

2008-05-10T18:21:00.013+01:00

Shahaab, Zafar, Saad, Omar and Saeed all hail from Detroit, USA. As 786, in the couple of years that they've been around, they have had tremendous success in North America and the UK with their slick harmonies and R&B inspired melodies. Nasheeds like 'Heaven's Keys' are deceptively profound while others like 'Palestine' tap into the sentiments of Muslims around the world.

They are guys who are comfortable with their Muslim and western identities and utilise both cultural influences in their songs. The contemporary sounds they generate are directly informed by a rich, spiritual Islamic heritage and influences from different parts of the world as well as different communities they have grown up with. The fusion makes for some distinctive nasheeds. Rap, Gospel, R&B, Qawwali, Soul are all absorbed into nasheeds evoking positive messages.

And yet it is only when you see them live that you truly begin to appreciate their art. Comfortable singing in English, Arabic and Urdu, these guys convey a passion and an intensity that has to be experienced to be believed - ask anyone who witnessed their shows at London’s Royal Albert Hall and Birmingham’s Symphony Hall!

As 786’s Shahaab says: "786 is a tool for propagating a positive Islamic message to our youth, particularly those who feel alienated and confused by world events and the way they are perceived by others in the community.” He goes on: “Although we all love to sing, that is not the reason for the group. It is something we do well together and share a passion for, but more importantly, we share a passion for being Muslim. None of us claims to be perfect, or that we do everything correctly, or even try to preach to others. We just want to open people's eyes to what Islam truly is about and to tell the youth that we know what you are going through and simply… we understand."

Disclaimer

2008-05-07T14:56:00.001+01:00

We do not host ANY files on our server's! All files are freely available online. All files were originally uploaded by someone else. All downloads are for educational or evaluation purpose only. Please support the artists by purchasing the albums.

We are not responsible for anything you may download. We do not support piracy or P2P what-so-ever and encourage our visitors to purchase retail copies of any albums found on this site.

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2008-05-06T20:27:00.002+01:00

Thank you for your generous donation. Your money will be used to buy new albums.

Jazakallahu Khayran

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2008-05-06T15:05:00.001+01:00

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2008-05-06T15:00:00.001+01:00

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786 - Straight Path

2008-05-02T21:25:00.000+01:00

Getting rave reviews for its soulful lyrics and musical diversity, 786's newest album will be sure to deliver the harmonies you are used to plus a cool new R&B flavor mixed with rock, Hip Hop, and traditional Urdu and Arabic influences. The new album is voice and percussion only.

786 - 786 (Voice & Percussion only)

2008-05-01T20:43:00.000+01:00

This is the International version of their original US album but with only voice and percussion. As a bonus it features hip-hop duo Aman on the track Du'a plus the new song Made Her Mark.

The self-named album is a great collection of songs in English, Urdu and Arabic. It ranges in musical style from classic qawwali in the awe inspiring Tajdare Haram to the contemporary R'n'B manner of Heaven's Key's.

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2008-01-01T14:55:00.002Z

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