Sami Yusuf was born in the month July 1980. He was born into a musical family of Azeri origin and thus music played an integral part in his life. Sami’s initial training came from his father, who is an internationally renowned composer, poet, and a multitalented musician.

Sami learnt to play several instruments at a very young age and gradually began to show a keen interest in singing and composing. At the age of eighteen, he obtained a scholarship to study composition at the Royal Academy of Music in London, one of the world most prestigious music institutions.

Sami has been composing from a very young age and his beautiful voice is supplemented by his extensive knowledge of notes and harmonies. He has also a good understanding of music theory and the Middle Eastern modes (or Maqams).

Indeed, it is rare to find a person who has all these talents. Sami is also a devout practicing Muslim who sees songs as a means of promoting the message of Islam and encouraging the youth to be proud of their religion and identity.
 
 
 

Sami Yusuf has his own dedicated website at www.samiyusuf.com. His comprehensive website contains multiple photo galleries, the full collection of streamable video clips and audio samples from both albums.

In addition a lively Sami Yusuf forum is provided alongside the usual artist material. New features for 2006 include an area where audio, visual and print interviews can be read without charge. Press cuttings will continue to be included. The site is invaluable for news of live tour dates.
 
 
 

Sami Yusuf recently performed live at Wembley Arena. All proceeds from the concert went towards Islamic Relief's Darfur Charity. A staggering £2.2 million was raised.

Find out more about the sights and sounds from this concert at www.samiyusuf.com/live
 
 
 

"Islamic Art, whether in the form of calligraphy, tiles, or music is all inspired by divine love and beauty. Music is a gift from God and is a tool which can be used but also (as it often is) misused. Indeed, nearly all Muslim countries have a rich history of Islamic spiritual music, each with its distinctive sound and flavour. Unfortunately, due to many reasons,this heritage has long been in decline.

It is my sincere wish that this humble album be one of the many artistic endeavours being undertaken to shape a new British-Muslim or Western-Muslim culture. I also felt obliged and motivated to contribute through this album to the positive efforts already being undertaken by the Muslim community to show the real face of Islam as understood by the majority of Muslims which is one of peace and tolerance. I hope that this album goes even a short way towards this aim, and I pray that God accepts it."

Sami Yusuf, September 2005/Rajab 1426