Transformational Music

Yusuf Islam

The permissibility and definition of music according to Islam is oft-debated. Maryam Abbas explores the social impact of popular Islamic music on the today’s youth.

Many who would listen to Quran recitations or Ashura related eulogies would notice their music-like qualities so it is arguable whether there is an agreed definition of what music is. Let us consider the current boost of modern music with Islamic undertones, and the effect it’s having on the Muslim population.

What is modern popular Islamic music? The artist Sami Yusuf is known by nearly everyone with an interest in anasheed (Islamic orientated songs). He is seen as the deliverer of what modern Islamic music is ideally supposed to be — a mixture of modern beats, rhythms, instruments or a capella (vocal music without instrumental accompaniment), with lyrical and aesthetical ties to Islamic themes. The result are tunes that are addictive and catchy, with an Islamic twist.

To date, Sami Yusuf has released two albums which have sold more than two million copies worldwide, including renowned hit singles such as: ‘Al Mualim’ and ‘My Ummah’. Ringtones based on his music often outsell those of other artists (Islamic and un-Islamic alike) in the Middle East and Turkey. But what does this all mean?

The rise of cool

Those dealing with Islamic music and working at associated events have seen a transformational change take place in the hearts of Muslim youth — Islamic music has become acceptable entertainment, whether it be nasheed or Islamic Pop. Many expected that with the turbulent rise of Western culture, Muslim youth would brand this phenomenon as ‘uncool’, but the reality is quite the contrary: nasheeds are proving to be increasingly popular as more groups explore varying styles within this genre and emerge with different variations of Islamic music.

It could be argued that this type of music seems to be doing good for the young Islamic community. Many are influenced by the lyrics of nasheeds and are genuinely interested in what each artist has to say, perhaps even more so than with traditional speakers or scholars.

Songs with morals

The recent Gaza crisis is a case in point. Many songs by different Muslim artists were released and are being released to this day showing support for the Palestinians. For the few weeks when the crisis intensified, focus was turned to listening more to the messages behind these words and less to Western popular music. Islamic artists have succeeded in capturing the interest of youth in current world affairs. Music with ethics, morality and soul appears to have changed the hearts and minds of young believers.

Helping to build the community

Sami Yusuf

Wide scale events such as the Islamic Relief’s‘ Evening of Inspiration’ or the ‘Sami Yusuf Peace Concert’ illustrate the extent to which Islamic music has impacted on the culture of today’s youth. Many feel moved and amazed to be witness to such a large gathering of their own brothers and sisters all under one roof, celebrating or helping the same cause. This community cohesion and brotherhood can strengthen ties and serve to facilitate cooperation. The fact that Islamic music creates a portal for fundraising for Muslim causes increases its clout, influence and appeal — for example, Sami Yusuf’s Wembley concert raised almost £200,000 for Darfur in October 2007.

Transform your soul

Many maintain that certain Islamic songs have a spiritual effect on individuals both young and old. Arab speakers will appreciate Ahmed Bukhatir’s song ‘Ommi’ — all vocal and guaranteed to draw a tear. It strengthens love for Islam and for the family. For English speakers, Sami Yusuf’s song ‘Mother’ is a must listen. These are two examples of many songs that change the mindset of the individual and helps shift focus back on religion.

Much of Western popular music comprises of hate, expletives and obscenity which changes the mood and attitude of those who listen. To have Muslim youth listening to Islamic music that strengthens or at the very least serves as a reminder of their faith can only be seen of as a positive shift from previous decades.

Is this change permanent? For now at least, music has become a well-integrated part of the Islamic world, ranging from small, obscure groups promoting social activism, to those big company backed artists who are making a career and raising awareness and money for charity.

That Islamic music is having an effect on the Muslim population is undeniable, what remains to be seen is whether it is for the better or the worse in the long term, and only time will tell.

Editor’s note:

Individuals are advised to refer to their scholar of taqlid regarding the permissibility of different types of music and songs as religious rulings are their area of expertise, not the layman’s.