Lil Jon joins growing list of Muslim hip-hop artists finding peace in Islam
SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
SHAH ALAM – Fresh off the heels of his performance in Usher’s Superbowl halftime show last month, famed American rapper, DJ, and record producer Jonathan H. Smith, popularly known by his stage name Lil Jon, embraced Islam on Friday in a Los Angeles mosque.
As they say, life someties takes us on unexpected journeys, leading us to places we never imagined and him reverting was never on our 2024 bingo card.
This rings true for the guidance of Allah, in which may come at any time, calling souls back to Islam. A flicker of love for Allah and his Messenger, a growing interest in the faith, these are signs a person might be on that path.
Lil Jon, 53, whose thunderous voice launched hits like "Get Low" and "Turn Down for What", began a new chapter, one that is full of faith and peace, in conjunction with Ramadan celebration
The conversion of Lil Jon, which happened on March 15 at the King Fahad Mosque in Culver City, California, shocked the music industry and aroused followers' attention
In a video released on Instagram by the Muslim Girl account, Lil Jon was seen pronouncing the Shahada, or the Islamic profession of faith, first in Arabic and then in English, with the imam of the mosque in charge and reported on various international news platforms.
He is well-known for his vibrant sense of style, original sense of fashion, and charitable endeavours. As a result of his contributions to music, Lil Jon has received multiple honours and worked with a variety of artists, including DJ Snake, Pitbull and Usher.
He also appears in movies and television series, and he even has a brand of alcoholic beverages called "Little Jonathan Winery". His impact can be seen in fields other than music, such as social media and fashion.
According to online news portal, The Business Standard revealed following his conversion, Lil Jon declared his desire to adopt the name "Brother Jon," a name he felt a spiritual connection to. In addition to going through a divorce and becoming fifty-years old, he has undergone other major life changes at this time.
With Lil Jon's conversion to Islam, he also joins a group of well-known celebrities who have accepted the religion, including American author and activist Shaun King, Clarence Seedorf, Kevin Lee, Gervonta Davis and Thomas Partey.
Other Muslim hip-hop musicians that have converted to Islam include Tyson, Khalil Ismail, Miss Undastood, Alia Sharrief, DJ Man-O-Wax, Brother Ali, The Reminders, Omar Offendum, The Narcycist, Quadeer Latin, Amirah Sackett and Mvstermind.
Brother Ali
Among them is Brother Ali, born Ali Douglas Newman on July 30, 1977, formerly known as Jason Douglas Newman, who is a prominent American rapper, community activist, and member of the Rhymesayers Entertainment hip hop collective.
Having embraced Islam at the age of fifteen, Brother Ali's conversion has profoundly influenced both his personal life and musical career, shaping his identity and beliefs. Inspired by artists like Chuck D and KRS-One, Brother Ali's interest in Islam was sparked by their lyrical references to figures like Farrakhan as a prophet, leading him to delve into the Quran.
According to online news portal, NPR, Inc, his journey into Islam was further guided by his association with Imam W. Deen Mohammed, particularly during a study trip to Malaysia, organised by the Imam, which exposed him to a more liberal Islamic society.
This experience played a pivotal role in shaping his spiritual path and eventual conversion to Islam. In his hip-hop career, Brother Ali's faith remains a dominant influence, with his commitment to his beliefs evident in his music, which reflects the impact of spirituality on his artistry.
Throughout his career, he has released seven albums, four EPs, and numerous singles and collaborations.
Omar Offendum
Next up is Omar Offendum, whose real name is Omar Chakaki. According to Hawaiʻi Public Radio, Omar Offendum, a Syrian American hip-hop artist, designer, poet, and peace activist, was born in Saudi Arabia and converted to Islam at a young age. His conversion has greatly influenced his identity and artistic expression, particularly evident in his music and poetry.
Omar Offendum is renowned for his poignant lyrics that often delve into themes of culture, identity, and societal issues. His embrace of Islam has deeply shaped his worldview and creative output, infusing his work with profound depth and significance.
Offendum is notably involved in crafting thought-provoking songs centered on the democratic movements in the Middle East and North Africa. He maintains an active international presence, performing at music festivals, delivering lectures at academic institutions, and raising funds for humanitarian relief efforts.
Alia Sharrief
Alia Sharrief, a talented rapper, educator, and Muslimah speaker, hails from Sacramento and is now based in Oakland, California. Known for her soulful performances and universal appeal, she has garnered international recognition for her boundless talents, as reported by KQED.
Sharrief's journey into Islam was deeply influenced by her parents, both of whom independently converted to Islam from Christianity before her. She has embraced her identity as a Black Muslim woman, using her music and platform to challenge stereotypes and promote understanding about Islam and Muslims in America.
With her music available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud, and a strong presence on social media platforms like YouTube and X, Sharrief likes to engage with her audience by
sharing songs like "My Girls Rock" and "Change the World."
