Kareem Salama

The first Muslim country and western music star

With his first two albums, Generous Peace and This Life Of Mine, Kareem Salama has made waves in a genre unaccustomed to immigrant voices. The devout Muslim now lives in Texas, but was raised by Egyptian parents in Oklahoma. He spoke to us after returning home from a successful European tour.

01/So how did an Egyptian boy get into country music?
In Oklahoma you hear country music everywhere. I remember hearing it as a child and as I got older I began to appreciate that it’s a genre where great stories and great lyrics are important. Country music is deep and light, sad and funny, real and make-believe, all at the same time.

02/Have your studies of Arabic poetry influenced the way you write songs?
I sometimes find inspiration in old Arabic poems. But more importantly, I started writing music as a way to memorise Western poetry, which was a technique I learned from Arabic poetry and maqamat – a type of melody found in traditional Arabic music.

03/ Have you come across any prejudice in the music industry as a result of your religion?
I’ve been met with a warm reception. I never assume people are going to be prejudiced so even if I am mistreated I don’t assume it is prejudice. If it is, I pardon it.

04/Do Middle America and the Middle East have much in common?
Absolutely. People from both parts of the world are warm and hospitable. They place a lot of importance on family and traditional values. They are noble, but down to earth.

05/Which one album would be the perfect introduction to country music?
Buy Kareem Salama’s album! Just kidding. Garth Brooks’ self-titled debut is a good introduction to the genre. www.kareemsalama.com