Shaheer Nasheeds- Taking the nasheed industry by storm

When it comes to Nasheeds in South Africa, Shaheer Nasheeds is definitely taking the industry by storm. Hearing the latest nasheed which was launched on Mother's day as a tribute to the artists mom, the song has touched the hearts of thousands of people across the globe. The man behind Shaheer Nasheeds is none other than Shaheer Karrim. Born in Durban, South Africa, not only is Shaheer a biokineticist and a soldier by profession, but he is also an aspiring singer and song writer. Read on to find out more in his own words.

Drink you would order at a coffee shop: hot chocolate 

Favourite cologne: cool waters

Favourite cuisine: I'm a pizza guy

1. Wow Shaheer, Your resume is truly impressive. Tell me a little more about your family background and life from childhood until present?

I had a very mixed childhood. On one hand, I grew up in a great complex with loads of friends, who are more like family to me now. I did great with sports through out school, had great times, won loads of trophies etc. and on the other hand I had to deal with my parents divorce, which occurred when I was around 10 years old. For me, this event was the beginning of a challenging emotional/spiritual journey  which taught me so much and made me the person I am today. I believe that these challenges Allah SWT gives us are there to strengthen and shape us for the purpose He SWT wants us to fulfill. 

2. Not many Indian boys desire to enter the army. What made you join the army and how was the experience over all.?

I qualified in 2007 with honors in biokinetics, but during my studying years I visited the military biokinetics department to help out and learn from them. It was very very different and exciting to meet actual soldiers and do exercise testing on them. In my final year, I was fortune to find out that a military biokineticist had transferred. I then applied early and got the post. Alhamdulilah. The experience has been amazing. It's a different world that we soldiers live in. The rules are different, and putting on the uniform is a real privilege and honor. The basic training that all officers have to do when you join was probably the highlight. Five and a half months in the small town of Heidelberg, living with other soldiers in a communal setting, away from normal life. We also did a bush phase where we lived in the bush for a while. I can still remember walking in the dark through grass that was almost my height, hearing animal sounds and being told 'okay, we going to sleep here tonight'. We all just looked at each other confused(it's our first time) and abit scared. But we made through and actually enjoyed it. I endured one of my hardest nights ever in my life when it stormed one of the nights. It rained so hard that our makeshift tent collapsed and we obviously got really wet. And to make matters worse it was a really cold night so we really struggled all night holding on to each other for warmth. Desperate times calls for...but it was actually fun when I look back.

3. Music is a very controversial topic within the Islamic world. Have you ever received criticism or a back lash from within your community for singing nasheeds with musical instruments?

I haven't had much criticism in terms of people confronting me directly, although I do get a few comments on social media once in a while. There was that article written recently on the Hartley fair and souk where I was named personally, but those things don't bother me. In fact, it probably gives me more conviction. I won't discuss why, all I will say is that Iv done research and read Istikhara before embarking on this path, so I'm fine with it in my heart. I think it's a general problem that we (including me) as human beings find it hard to accept that our own opinion is not absolute and that other opinions can be accommodated (Even if you disagree). Maybe it makes us feel insecure. However, I think there are some great Leaders emerging around the Muslim world that are teaching tolerance and acceptance of diversity, so that's promising. I think It's also a matter of environment. In other parts of the world,especially Muslim countries like Indonesia and Malaysia, Islamic music is common and a huge industry. So their artists get loads of support and attention. But I think people should listen if they feel it's okay and don't listen if it's their opinion that it's wrong.

4. Do you think that the decision made by the SABC, for all radio stations to play 90 percent local music is applaudable? Do you think it will be of advantage to upcoming artists like yourself?

It will definitely improve the chances of getting local talent out there. But the question being asked by most artists who are going the extra mile in terms of production, is that, will the quality of the songs be at the required level to be on radio? Will it improve or weaken the industry? I think we'll have to wait and see. I believe it will definitely encourage younger artists to begin their journeys. But there's a huge difference between just getting a song out there and making a world class hit. As an upcoming artist I can tell you it's not easy or cheap trying to get out international quality. So hopefully the decision doesn't make us artists complacent in terms of the overall quality, but inspires us to take the opportunity to reach new levels of excellence. 

5. Are South African artists on par with international singers? If yes, why do you think so and if No, how can these artists improve themselves in order to reach an international standard?

I don't know too much about the mainstream singers. But I do know that our local sound doesn't really match the international style of music production, so it's hard to compare in terms of quality. In terms of Nasheeds, we are getting there slowly. Iv been forced to use mainstream producers at times to get the right quality for certain tracks, because there's not many Muslim producers with those specific expertise. I'd say that we lack Muslim producers more than artists. I think working with mainstream producers is excellent idea because they have in-depth knowledge of music, academically and also in terms of experience. Reaching an international standard? That was really challenging for me. With my debut single Veils, I had redone the song about 7 times before getting something  that was worth showing the world. I was new to the industry so I made loads of mistakes. I'd say the lessons that others can take heed from are: 1) make sure you compare your end product with artists who already have an international standard and don't give up until you find a way to get the same quality. 2) be patient and look for a producer who is the ability and equipment to give you what you want 3) You get what you pay for, so sometimes it's better to pay abit more. 4)let people you trust evaluate your song and don't be resistant to criticism, Let non musicians listen to the song and take their advice seriously, because they are your main listeners. 6) Reach out to international stars, some will reply and help you out as they were once amateurs and know the struggle.

6.What has been your most memorable experience in your life thus far?

Hmmm, i was always a person searching for deeper meaning and understanding. So I'd say there's a phase of my life that is most memorable, in which I met many spiritual people and got most of my questions answered, went for Haj and gained a lot of peace. Alhamdulilah 

7. Have you performed abroad?

I have not. Once my full album is out, it will make more sense for me to go abroad and promote it. Right now I've released only two songs

8. If you could be granted one wish and have any skill or talent in the world, what would it be?

I would definitely wish for equality, peace and love in the world. So much of violence and poverty throughout the globe, I would want that to instantly disappear 

9. What are your favourite websites?

Desert moon obviously, lol. I'm on Facebook and Instagram mostly.

10. Define success. What does success mean to you?

Success to me is realizing and pursuing your passions, striving to be better and aligning everything you do to your ultimate goal, which is Taqwa and realization of Allah SWT within every moment of your life. I think with that philosophy the accolades and milestones will come on there own.

11. Did you wish to collaborate with other artists in the future? Have you already worked with other artists in the nasheed industry?

I'm currently collaborating with Indonesian artist Yoga Al Ghazali who's signed to the Ana Muslim record label. We are doing an English version of His already famous track HasbunAllah. It will be released in Indonesia and Malaysia this Ramadaan InshaAllah. I hope I get to collaborate with lots of artists. I enjoy the process and love to connect with other artists. I'm also planning other collaborations with comedians and hope to have some fun doing something different. Can't say too much now. Will have to wait and see InshaAllah 

12. Where do you see yourself five years from now? What are your plans for the future?

I see myself doing lots of things to be honest. I'm learning about myself everyday and I'm open to almost anything at the moment. But in terms of music, in 5 years I would like to think that I would have already done lots of traveling and live performances for huge crowds. I see myself producing for other artists, doing exciting collaborations with international entertainers and having lots of fun. I would also include some acting roles. I'd love to try myself out at acting, I think i have it in me. And most of all, I hope to connect with people and inspire them to live lives that are in alignment with things that make them happy and please God, Most High

13. Are there any other special experiences that have occurred within your life that you wish to share the blog readers?

18 months ago I had no idea that I would be singing professionally.I knew I could sing a bit, but didn't really believe in my ability. I thought,nah it takes much more than what I have to be a professional. But Somehow, I listened to that inner voice and I decided to try out this passion of mine. I made Dua, got help from people in the industry and gave it my all. Today my videos are watched and downloaded by people all over the world. I've got acknowledgement from established  international artists from different continents and I haven't released my first album as yet.

So my message to people is, if you love something but doubt your capabilities. Take the first step and believe in yourself. Listen to that voice that's pushing to try it out. You never know what can happen, maybe it will be a life changing decision,like in my case

Thank you Shaheer Karrim for taking the time to answer these questions.

Desert Moon wishes you all the best in your future endeavours and beyond.

Muslim School-- Oh Really!!

I have spoken about this topic before and I think we need to bring up this topic again. This morning I had a childhood friend who passed by and he seemed to be distressed about the way the management and teachers conduct themselves at the Islamic school that his child is in. At the beginning of the year the school was suppose to host a speech contest. A date was set for the preliminary round of the competition and all the students prepared for the event. Guess what, the event got cancelled as the grandson of a so called wealthy prominent member of society was gone overseas with his parents. The event was rescheduled to when the child returned and a member of the teaching staff assisted him with his speech as well. Naturally the young man was chosen to be a part of the competition. At the actual event that occurred at a community hall, a little girl won the actual competition whereby the grandfather of the little boy walked out of the event and decided to put up a show as to why his grandson did not win. It is so ironic that we tell ourselves our kids are in the Islamic school yet these kids are taught values and etiquette that is totally against Islamic norm. Another mom who frequents the pharmacy told me that her child was stigmatized and mocked at by her class mates as she does not arrive at school with a posh vehicle like the other kids. The child suffered from depression and eventually needed the assistance of a psychologist. When she approached the school management for assistance, she was told that its not their problem. If a child has money and is from a wealthy family, that child is automatically placed on a pedestal by the teachers and staff of the school. This kind of behaviour disgusts me to the core and I have witnessed this many many times over. There are many kids at these Islamic schools who lead dual lives. Log into their instagram accounts, they are posing half naked with their boyfriends and yet the image they create to the world is one of a good Muslim child. I have said this before and I will say this again, I do not condone Islamic schools and this is my opinion. My friend now agrees with me and believes that his child needs to rather move to a good model C school or a private school whereby the child is acknowledged based on hard work and merit as opposed to the child's family name. He also believes that it will be in the child's best interests to be able to interact with different types of people and races in a mixed gendered school where the child can also partake in extra curricular activities thereby acquiring other skills that will assist the child later on in life.The favouritism and politics that occurs within these so called Islamic schools needs to stop.Wearing Islamic attire everyday to school does not make you a Muslim Why should one child be more privileged than the other simply because of the family name or simply because the child's family donates money to the school. Is this kind of a sick disgusting mentality a part of Islamic values?

Success does not equal money

                                               Picture taken from fastfitnesstc.com

Credit needs to be given where it's due.. A big shout out to the doctors and nursing staff at Sunninghill hospital for trying their utmost best to stabilise my grandmother. Last week she was transferred from Milpark to Sunninghill hospital. The nursing staff at Milpark were any patients worst nightmare. There was no empathy or compassion. At Sunninghill the service delivery is excellent. This morning my granny took a turn for the worst. She had severe internal bleeding from 2 ulcers. Of course through the bleeding she lost blood and was very weak. Her vitals were not good at all. The medical team had given up hope and said that she has a 50/50 chance of surviving due to cardiac and renal failure. Naturally we were all emotionally finished. However, with God's grace by this evening the bleeding stopped and her vitals have since improved after undergoing a gastrointestinal scope. There is a small glimmer of hope. Mom and I broke down when we seen my nanima laying in the bed with her frail body connected to so many pipes and machines. Whilst we couldn't hold back our tears, nanima kept on asking why are we crying? Thank you sister Sarah for coming into the room with tissues and for consoling us. A big thank you to sister Rosie for encouraging my nanima to fight her illness.As a medical professional myself we counsel patients everyday when they are diagnosed with terminal illnesses or when their loved ones have passed on. However when it's your own, it's a different ball game altogether.When I seen my nanima helpless this afternoon on the hospital bed so many thoughts went through my mind. Death is inevitable . Every soul shall taste death. We come into this world alone and we leave alone taking behind absolutely nothing at all. So why then do people hurt others.. why do we fight, argue and ridicule others. Why do we bulldoze others in the quest for wealth and materialism. For many out there success equals money. To me success does not equal money. Success equals special memories with my loved ones.. success equals spending time with my family and friends. Success equals going through different experiences in life . Success equals happiness and contentment within my heart. Success equals my closeness to my Lord. What I've learnt today is that we should not take life for granted. If you love someone tell them even if they don't love you.If you have a dream fulfill it. Try doing good every single day of your life. A good deed never ever goes unnoticed by your Lord.Live your life to the fullest for tomorrow might never be. I beseech all of you out there to please say a little prayer for my grand mom. Please try to read sura yaseen for her and remember her in your prayers.

Where exactly are we heading to?

                                          Picture taken from www.ladyandtheblog.com

As I lay in bed I can't help but ponder over the plight that some of my patients are going through. I think some of their trials are an eye opener for many of us. It is a reality that makes you question society at large. Where exactly are we going to?

The drugs pandemic is a huge issue within our communities. It has destroyed and torn families apart. But guess what,the Nigerian drug lords are so damn brazen to deal in drugs openly on the streets. Many of our men in blue are in cahoots with these drug lords. Monies get exchanged on the street in full view of the public and life just continues. Tonight another child will try out drugs, tonight is the beginning of another human beings destruction...Most of us are of the opinion that the drug issue affects certain type of people or men in particular.Well allow me to burst your bubble. The drug issue is not about wealth, race, creed or status. It can affect anyone's home including the homes of prominent muslim families.I was heart broken to be informed about a Muslim couple who left their three kids aged between 3 and 8 locked up at home whilst they went out on a drug binge for an entire night. The poor 8 year old looked after the other 2 kids who were petrified to be left alone at home. The parents returned home the next morning absolutely disorientated. The social workers have now stepped in to provide assistance. The kids may be handed over to a foster family temporarily.

A few weeks ago a young Muslim woman came to the pharmacy looking very stressed and depressed. She was under the impression that her married life was perfect unlike one day she decided to visit her husband at work only to find him being intimate with a white girl who happened to be his colleague. Every time he left early for work or flew abroad she was told that it was due to work. In the mean time her hubby was having an affair.She then confronted her husband with regards to his dual life. Apparently he and his friends use to frequent a posh club in Sandton that supposedly serves halaal food. It is here that business deals were conducted and at the same time based on their status within the club he and his friends had the choice of spending the afternoon with any of the women on display. After having a good time with these women, her hubby simply returned home perfectly normal as though nothing happened..such is the happenings within the corporate world...

Then let's talk about bisexuality, lesbianism and homosexuality occurring within the Muslim community. Over the last few weeks I encountered two cases whereby a woman walked in on her hubby and his male friend whilst they were involved with sexual activities. In the other case a husband walked in on his wife who was intimate with a female friend of hers. In both instances the spouses went ballistic. They felt cheated and betrayed.

I can not forget the tears that flowed down a mothers cheeks a few days ago when she passed by the pharmacy for a bit of counselling. I guess all she wanted was a bit of comfort and reassurance that everything will be just fine.A month ago her only daughter got married. Naturally it was a happy occasion. However, when the bride and groom returned from their honeymoon the happiness turned into sadness.The groom decided to divorce his bride as she was supposedly inexperienced in the bedroom. It's pretty obvious then that the groom was probably involved in intimate relationships prior to marriage. This man has basically ruined a woman's life. I have come across Muslim men who have confessed to sleeping with prostitutes. Their wives know nothing of course.Are these men not afraid of contracting HIV. Do they not fear their Lord.

I have come across married Muslim women who are addicted to cocaine in addition to gambling. They spend all their time in a casino not bothered at all about the welfare of their kids.Why don't people value and respect the institute of marriage any longer. Why don't people respect other people's feelings and emotions any more. Why do people find enjoyment in hurting others.

Marriage nowadays is all about money, status, wealth, beauty,sexiness.In essence marriage should be about heart and character. It's about 2 people growing old together and learning from each other. It's about a deep emotional and spiritual bond between two people.

A family I am acquainted with are torn apart after a man stabbed his wife's brother to death. The man was abusing his wife and hence when she called her brother for assistance the poor man lost his life. A young Muslim girl lost her eye sight after being beaten up and punched in the face repeatedly by her husband. She will never lead a normal life ever again. A man shot his childhood friend out of jealousy. Whilst the one gentleman owned a company and was prospering in life both in terms of his career and personal life, the perpetrator was a drug addict who lost all of his belongings and assets in life.

Such is the status of our Muslim communities. The more we progressing in terms of technology the more we regressing in terms of character and values. Whilst striving to adopt a western way of life we have in essence lost our own cultural values and moral ethic.Life is changing all the time. Time and tide waits for no man as the saying goes. Yet the only constant in your life is God Almighty. If you have God as your best friend He will always guide you in life towards goodness. As I look outside my bedroom window staring at the velvet sky above, I ask God Almighty to ease the pain and suffering of my patients. To make their life journey easy for them. Guide everyone including my enemies towards goodness. Grant my family, friends and enemies good health and happiness. Protect us Lord from the evil temptations of this world. Grant us foresight and vision to see right from wrong. Make us the tools to guide others from darkness into light. Soften our hearts dear Lord and make us from among those who give assistance rather than receive..Ameen...