The story of Native Deen is an inspiring one that began with three Muslim youth possessing unique talents and a passion to spread an 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 Muhammadcame 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 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 not to succumb to the pressures and temptations of modern society.
Native Deen uses percussion instruments and synthetic sounds during their performances, inline with one of the opinions on the use of musical instruments in Islam. 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.
Native Deen has also released two of its albums as voice only, to accommodate those who have issues with any musical instrument. They are each working on a solo albums that underline the uniqueness of each member.
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, Outlandish and much more. Native Deen has performed in over 60 cities around the world inspiring Muslims and non-Muslims alike. 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 third album out “The Remedy”, the trio has reached a new height in their career.