Project26 have just launched their new music video for the often-requested, ultra-popular song: Always.
See the video page here: http://tv.muxlim.com/video/IS8C7hu3XtC
Check it out on YouTube: Project26 - Always.
If alternative rock ballads are your thing, share it with your friends. Share it with your friends of other faiths as the song talks about a universal emotion: LOVE.
The world needs more love.
Rock on.
Guitarist and songwriter, Ali Qazi, of Project26 pinged me the other day informing me of the following good news:
This is by far the biggest opportunity we’ve had since we banded a few years ago. In a way we also want to think of it as a major pay off for all the hard work over these years. So we want to take this time and opportunity to thank all our friends and family that helped us get this far, and hope you continue to lend your support to us.
So here it is……..(drum roll)……….June 21st…..Anaheim California…..Project26 opens for OUTLANDISH!!!
Yeah, you heard it right, YOUR Project26 and OUTLANDISH on the same stage.
This show is part of an effort by the youth segment of the Muslim American Society. MASyouth introduces “Voices for Change”, to create means of artistic expression that is nourishment for the soul and good conscience.
For tickets and other information visit: http://www.masyouth.net/voicesforchange
Project26 was elected as winners of a talent contest put together by MAS youth to determine the opening act for Los Angeles show. We will be featuring our usual partner in [rhyme], the phenomenal, MANIFEST ONE! www.manifestone.com
Brother Manifest and Project26 are cooking up something very special so please get your tickets before they run out so you can come, sing along, and make some noise with us.
Rock on! See our Project26 interview and rocking article for more information about the band.
During Black History Month, we will be featuring interviews from different personalities. We divided our questions into three parts: Past, Present and Future.
In our second Black History Month interview, we are honored to have Abdul-Malik of Native Deen answering our questions. Check bandmate Joshua Salaam’s interview here.
Past - Malcolm X was a visionary and he had plans to establish a Muslim identity in North America.
1. Do you feel that our contemporary generation has lost the connection to Malcolm’s legacies? Please explain (you may include suggestions and action steps)
During the height civil rights era, youth were at the center of the impetus for change and revolution. Malcolm X grew up in this climate and it directly affected his perspective on life and the great legacy that left. Today, youth have been afforded the opportunities [that] many people in civil rights era never had. However, these legacies of faith, leadership and tolerance that Malcolm X [upheld] are not encouraged in the media that youth are watching day after day. During the time of Malcolm, there were blatant injustices embedded in the culture of America that needed to be eradicated. As youth of today, we need to put a spotlight on the aspects of our culture that [are] negative and do as much as we can to remove them from our lives and the lives of those around us. Malcolm’s legacy was one of change. Societal ills such as the pervasiveness of drug abuse and fornication need to be tackled immediately.
2. On the eve of the 43rd anniversary of Malcolm’s death, why do you feel we still have not been able to establish a fraction of Malcolm’s vision?
Malcolm was about revolution. The Prophet SAW advised us to change any situation with our hands, then with our voice, then at least abhor it in our hearts. The reason that many times our goals have not been accomplished or visions be realized is that we aren’t following those steps that he, Prophet SAW, mentioned are the ways to make change. We may try to outwardly change something, but we may not really believe in the change. Or we may believe in the change in our hearts, but we don’t try to change it with our voice or hands. The Quran mentions many times “Belief and righteous works” - both going hand in hand. Once we establish our belief, we must put our faith into action.
Future - African American Youth
1. The youth are constantly bombarded by insidious and harmful elements in the media. Which role models would you recommend for our youth to seek inspiration and guidance? (Our Beloved Prophet is the default answer but anyone else that is in our generation?)
Artists, athletes and musicians have a tremendous [role] in inspiring and guiding the youth of today. Many famous artists only wish to entertain and not inspire which is one of the causes of many ills in society. Hip hop artists will rap about drug[s], sex and violence in their lyrics for the purpose of entertainment. Even some Muslim rappers fall into the trap of being “popular” and riding the wave of the industry. However, there are a few that craft their art for the benefit of the youth. These can be good [role] models for our youth. Hakeem Olajuwon is a good example of a sports figure who kept to his beliefs and also out-performed other players on the basketball court.
2. For many, African pride is strong during the short month of February. What do you recommend to our readers to instill a consistent awareness of African history, past & present contributions and contemporary issues?
As Muslims, we realize that we are a creation of Allah SWA and we are all equal except for our righteousness. He made us into nations and tribe so that we can get to know one another. But its also important for us as African Americans to be proud of our heritage. If we feel an inferiority complex towards any other group of people or race, we are in essence not accepting Allah’s ultimate knowledge and wisdom. In order to instill this pride, we have to let our family and friends realize the great advancements in science, technology, medicine and other areas by African Americans. There are many youth and immigrants who don’t realize how great the African nation once was. This has to be mentioned and instilled into people – so that there is a genuine respect for each other and we can learn from each other equally as Allah commanded.
Purchase Native Deen’s new album, Not Afraid to Stand Alone, here. Also, check out their MySpace and Facebook pages. Here is a video of their previous single, Small Deeds.
During Black History Month, we will be featuring interviews from different personalities. We divided our questions into three parts: Past, Present and Future.
We begin our series of interviews with Joshua Salaam from Native Deen and ADAMS Center Youth Director.
Past - Malcolm X was a visionary and he had plans to establish a Muslim identity in North America.
1. Do you feel that our contemporary generation has lost the connection to Malcolm’s legacies? Please explain (you may include suggestions and action steps)
Yes. Without a doubt we have lost the spirit, drive, integrity, etc. that Malik Al-Shabaz stood for. I say “we” because I myself have been victim to becoming complacent. His life’s message for everyone was to seek the truth and stand for it, no matter what the consequences.
2. On the eve of the 43rd anniversary of Malcolm’s death, why do you feel we still have not been able to establish a fraction of Malcolm’s vision?
Hard to say. Perhaps we have realized some of his dream. But its less of a goal and more of a lifestyle. A lifestyle of bravery and strength. There will always be battles to be fought. Maybe with different tactics but we must be ever vigilant against racism, discrimination and hatred.
Present - Andre Carson and Keith Ellison, new leaders in a new age.
1. Mr. Carson and Mr. Ellison have added a new dimension to American politics. Do you think it is important for them to emphasize their Islamic beliefs to the American public? Why or why not?
I don’t think its important for them to emphasize their beliefs. I think it is crucial for them to stick by their beliefs. Maintain their beliefs. Everyone is a product of their upbringing. So they should keep whatever fundamental good they brought into their position and just live it. People will see for themselves. They won’t have to emphasize anything.
2. If you were a member of their administration, what advice or suggestions would you offer to them?
Its your time. Make the most of it.
Future - African American Youth
1. The youth are constantly bombarded by insidious and harmful elements in the media. Which role models would you recommend for our youth to seek inspiration and guidance? (Our Beloved Prophet is the default answer but anyone else that is in our generation?)
I think role models are local. Your neighbor, your teacher, your friends. You see them deal with stress on a day to day basis. People on TV are able to hide their true reactions. Therefore, it is also very important for everyone to remember, we are all role models and there are many little eyes looking at us searching for examples to live their lives by. We are all role models. Let’s be good ones.
2. For many, African pride is strong during the short month of February. What do you recommend to our readers to instill a consistent awareness of African history, past & present contributions and contemporary issues?
It must be a culture. If a guy play extremely well on the court, someone may shout out, “Jordan!!!” If someone is extremely smart we may shout out “Einstein!!!” But how many African American names can we shout out for academic achievements. We have to learn them and make it a culture of reminding people what our achievements are.
Purchase Native Deen’s new album, Not Afraid to Stand Alone, here. Also, check out their MySpace and Facebook pages. Here is a video of their new single, Stand Alone.
Our friends of Nasheeds.com have a special bonus for all IslamCrunch readers. Use the code below to receive a 15% discount on all purchases! Some CDs are already on sale. Use the code to receive an additional 15% off on sale items!
ST32IC1439*
Click on the CD cover to read more about the album.
Another album to add to your collection is Hamza Robertson’s Something About Life. Hamza may not be a household name yet but he has already toured with Sami Yusuf, Native Deen and other well-known nasheed performers. Use the special code above to add an additional 15% to the current discount of 10% off. That’s 25% discount!
Click on the CD cover to read more about the album.
Out Seeing the Fields by singer/songwriter Dawud Wharnsby is an intimate collection of songs underscored by acoustic guitar and the intricate piano work of US based composer Idris Phillips. Wharnsby’s poetry and voice are in the foreground as usual, with subject matter addressing honesty of faith, quest for identity, spiritual growth, and love. Other elements include a tribute to peace activist Rachel Corrie and a semi-autobiographic look at balancing faith with the egocentric music industry. Another opportunity to purchase this album at 25% discount.
Click on the CD cover to read more about the album.
Nasheeds.com has been very gracious to showcase IslamCrunch on their site and our relationship continues to grow, which all began here: http://islamcrunch.com/archives/ramadan-competition/
Please support them, tell all your friends about this offer and purchase your ‘Eid gifts now. Share this article by clicking here!
* = valid until December 31, 2007.
