Joshua Salaam
Vocalist / Songwriter / Managing Member
Joshua Salaam is an entertainer at heart, known for his engaging stage presence that keeps audiences on their feet and often doubled over with laughter. As a lyricist, he masterfully blends hardcore, no-nonsense lyrics with old-school Hip-Hop influences. In addition to his vocal talents, Joshua is an accomplished conga player, adding rhythmic depth to Native Deen’s performances with his dynamic drumming.
Naeem Muhammad
Vocalist / Songwriter / Music Aficionado
Naeem Muhammad captivates listeners with his heart-wrenching melodies and thought-provoking Hip-Hop rhymes. His distinctive, powerful voice sets him apart as a unique artist. Naeem’s lyrics reflect his deep artistic and organic heritage, addressing spirituality, soul-searching, family, humanity, politics, and the environment. His ability to weave profound themes into his music resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
Abdul-Malik Ahmad
Vocalist / Songwriter / Producer
Abdul-Malik Ahmad’s talent as a songwriter and producer is undeniable. With a storyteller’s finesse, he writes passionately about societal issues affecting both Muslims and non-Muslims. As a producer, he crafts ear-catching rhythms and sounds that showcase his expertise in the studio. His dedication to creating meaningful music has solidified his place among the top Muslim artists in the world.
Tariq Snare
Percussionist/ DJ / Producer / Author
Born in Brooklyn NY, Tariq has been Drumming around the world with many well known main stream artists (Queen Latifah, Sami Yusuf, Kool & the Gang) for well over 40 years. He is a master percussionist who has taken his children’s drum instruction book and workshops to many Muslim countries like Indonesia, Algeria, Jordan and Iraq. He converted to Islam at his very first Native Deen performance over 20 years ago and has been drumming and producing with them ever since. He is the musical backbone behind Native Deen’s electrifying live concert performances.
The Story of Native Deen
Native Deen’s journey began in 2000, uniting three talented Muslim youth—Joshua Salaam, Abdul-Malik Ahmad, and Naeem Muhammad—who shared a passion for spreading the uplifting message of Islam. Originally solo artists and active community members, they sought creative ways to educate and inspire Muslim youth. Together, they fused Hip-Hop and R&B flavors, delivering eclectic combinations of lyrics, rhythms, and sounds that continue to captivate fans worldwide.
As African-American Muslims raised in the United States, Native Deen addresses the unique challenges faced by Muslims in America. Their music calls listeners to hold steadfast to their faith, live better lives, and resist the temptations of modern society. Native Deen’s mission has inspired an international fanbase and made them one of the leading Islamic Nasheed groups.
Musical Style and Impact
Native Deen employs percussion instruments and synthetic sounds, aligning with one Islamic opinion on the use of musical instruments. This creative approach has led to a unique blend of street rap, Hip-Hop, and R&B, producing evocative sounds that appeal to diverse audiences. To accommodate varying perspectives on music in Islam, the group has also released two albums as voice-only versions.
Their music bridges cultural gaps, presenting Islam in a positive light to Western audiences while promoting tolerance and understanding in Muslim-majority countries. Through their performances, Native Deen demonstrates the diversity of devout Muslim practices worldwide.
Achievements and Performances
Native Deen has released three albums, including The Remedy, which showcases the trio’s musical evolution. They have performed in over 60 cities across North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, playing in prestigious venues and sharing stages with celebrated artists such as Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens), Sami Yusuf, Zain Bhika, Raihan, and Outlandish.
In 2006, they received the Mahabba Award in Dubai, recognizing their artistry in spreading Islam through their music. Their work continues to inspire both Muslims and non-Muslims, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation through the universal language of music.
Upcoming tour in 2025
The Native Deen Tour is ready to kick off an epic celebration of Native Deen’s 25-year musical legacy of songs that inspire faith, justice and resilience within the Muslim community! This spectacular journey will take us through seven states, each boasting a lively anchor city, where the band will dazzle audiences in two nearby cities within a 2-4 hour drive—focusing especially on college campuses to crank up the buzz. While the tour officially covers seven states, we’re talking up to 21 performances across America, inshaAllah!