Road to Madinah (CD) - [Dawud Wharnsby]

This recording is Muslim artist Dawud Wharnsby Ali's third CD release since embracing Islam in 1993. A potpourri of songs which illustrate the character of a Mumin (believer), "Road To Madinah" features complex vocal arrangements and strong percussion which underscore songs dealing with humility, patience during hardship and reflection on one's daily actions.

"The Veil", from the Sound Vision.Com documentary "Hijab: an Act of Faith",is a Muslim woman's response to accusations that the Hijab is "oppressive", with lyrics sung by Wharnsby-Ali and co-written by Zahra Duran.

"Muslim Lullaby" is a wonderful way for your little one to learn during bedtime, since it teaches the Du'a (supplication) before going to sleep, tied to a simple and gentle melody. The first official "Muslim Lullaby" is easy enough for all parents to sing! Along with recitation of Holy Qur'an, make it a family practice to end each night with this bedtime song.

These are just some of the great tracks on this wonderful recording. "Road To Madinah" makes a great gift for children and young adults, who learn many of their ideas and values through songs, or anyone looking for a Halal and fun alternative to current mainstream entertainment.

Here are some reviews of this album:

Review by Susan Hogan of The Minneapolis Star Tribune June 5,1999

With simple folk music, Dawud Wharnsby Ali sings songs celebrating his Muslim faith. The music is catchy and singable and largely sung in English. It's mostly done in capella, though there's some percussion accompaniment. Ali hopes that it will inspire young Muslims to appreciate the tenets of their faith.

In "Full of Humility," Ali sings " Put all our pride away, always thank Allah when we pray, you know we shouldn't be full of ourselves when we should be full of humility."
"Life Returns" extols the cycle of life. In "The Veil," Ali sings about the importance of modesty and self-respect:"This body that I have, no stranger has the right to see; these long clothes, the shawl I wear insure my modesty; faith is more essential than fashion, would'nt you agree?"

Well done.

Review in Islamic Horizons Magazine

The Muslim tradition of hymning praises of Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'la), His Creation and His Messenger, Prophet Mohammad (Salla Allahu Alayi wa Sallam) is now coming of age in English. This effort got its serious beginnings when Yusuf Islam, the former Cat Stevens, resurrected his musical career with a different flavor.

Dawud Wharnsby Ali, the Muslim Canadian singer of Islamic themes has produced another inspiring music CD/audio cassette entitled "Road to Madinah." In a potpurri of songs, Ali illustrates the character of a Mu'min.

3 Ways To Use This Product:

Use the track "Lullaby (Dua before Sleep)" to help your newborn fall asleep

Listen to the track "What did I do today" to discuss with your family, Halaqa members or weekend Islamic school class the importance of using our time and life responsibly.

Host a party at your house with a guest speaker who has made Hajj and visited the city of Madinah to share their experiences of this blessed place and follow it up by playing the song "Madinatun Nabi", along with serving refreshments for guests.

Author: Dawud Wharnsby Ali

Size, Format: Audio CD