Emeralds are Green
The sixth annual social gathering of the Emerald Organisation kicked off in the prestigious venue of the in the heart of London’s Westminster district, practically next door to 10 Downing Street. The gathering was serenaded by Khaleel who performed several of his nasheeds (songs) and enjoyed the company of the mingling guests.
SkyBorn would like to thank all the Ruful and the members of the Emerald Organisation.
...................................................................................................................
Khaleel helps raise over £3,000 for Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day!
Always game for a laugh and willing to help out for a good cause, Khaleel (Michael) performed a number of songs at Stantonbury Campus in aide of Comic Relief’s Red Nose Day. The entire school participated in various sponsored activities including face painting, crazy clothes and even a woolly dinosaur, in a bide to raise money for developing nations around the world. In his usual style, Khaleel performed two songs from his latest album ‘Dhikr (Remembrance) of Life’ before dozens of children gathered in the open area of Grafton Hall 1. “It was a last minute thing and I had little time to prepare but I loved every minute of it!” said Khaleel after the performance.
“Stantonbury kids must be some of the crazies and nosiest bunch of kids on earth, but they are also the most generous as we certainly collected loads of money for Red Nose Day!”
As the performance wore on Khaleel invited a few of the kids and a TA (teaching assistant) to try their hand at drumming with impressive results. Later PE teacher Ali and form Paul Bush took to the mic and rapped (!) while Khaleel playd along on his djembe drum.
“Poor Paul and Ali, I singled them out of the teachers to come up to the front and like real troopers they delighted us with some rather unorthodox rapping that had the kids howling with laughter!” commented Khaleel.
SkyBorn would like to thank all the brilliant kids at Stantonbury Campus especially Khaleel’s helpers, staff: Mike O’Callaghan, Angela Duffin, Paul and Ali.
For more about Red Nose Day visit: www.rednoseday.com
...................................................................................................................
To Brussels and Back
Khaleel and the SkyBorn team travelled to Belgium where Khaleel performed before an audience of over 2,000 spectators in the French-speaking city of Brussels. (more)
Invited by the European Association of Art and Culture, the show, ‘Islamic Festival of Song’ now in its 6th year, showcased Khaleel and his uplifting songs and on stage antics “This was my first time in Belgium so I had no idea how they would receive me – but alhamdulilah it was all good!”
Joining Khaleel on stage for the 45-minute performance was newcomer Dan Plews on guitar. A prolific singer and songwriter, Dan is a regular performer on the UK folk scene. “Dan’s addition to the live performance in Belgium added a rich and melodic texture to my songs I never knew they had! said Khaleel, “While performing ‘Tala al Badr Alayina – Welcome to Medinah’ the entire audience sung along in a arousing voice, greatly moved by Dan’s fantastic guitar playing!”
While only the second time Dan has joined Khaleel on stage, it was obvious that the two had a real on-stage chemistry, especially during the live version of ‘Heaven’ that singer and guitarist performed. Khaleel invited members of the audience on stage and rewarded their singing efforts with complimentary CD’s.
SkyBorn would like to thank the people of Brussels, the European Association of Art and Culture, brothers, Ossani, Yousuf, Yahyah and brother Shereef for all their kindness, jazak’Allah!
For more on guitarist Dan Plews visit: www.myspace.com/danplews
...................................................................................................................
SkyBorn workshops in Rochdale
Ethics Day at Wardle High school Rochdale played host to six workshops delivered by Khaleel and the SkyBorn team. Centred around over coming racism and achieving personal goals, Khaleel took over 150 year 11 non-Muslim students through a journey of how he over came personnel, as well as social obstacles, in order to achieve his many goals. Invited by brother Fahan Chisti who heads up the RS (religious Studies) department and who is also a presenter on the DM Islam TV channel, the day was a resounding success.
“I believe in showing not talking about over coming barriers and we felt that showing and tell of some of the things I have gone on to achieve is the best way to show what one can achieve if they refuse to be victims of persecution or self doubt!” said Khaleel.
After the workshops Khaleel gave the entire Year 11 kids a few verses of ‘Welcome to Medina’, which was met with a thunderous round of applause!
Crescent Community Radio
Later in the afternoon Khaleel and the SkyBorn Team made their way to the studios of Crescent Community Radio for a scheduled drive-time interview. Hosted by Riz Khan, the showed lasted two hours and was punctuated by listeners calling in and sending in text messages asking Khaleel questions about his nasheed and other projects. Khaleel talked about his journey to Islam and his career highs and lows as a nasheed artist. He wrapped up the interview with a few verses from the song ’Follow Muhammad (s)’
Quick, to the mosque!
Unknown to them, 200 children in the local mosque were about to have a surprise of their little lives! At an unscheduled and unannounced visit to the mosque Khaleel was hidden behind closed doors as the children were gathered believing they were to be told about their activities for the following day. But to their opened mouthed surprise Khaleel jumped out and performed ‘Tala al Badr Alayina – Welcome to Medinah’. “Oh man you should have seen their faces!!” laughs Khaleel, while Isha D. Maison added, “Khaleel song to the most wonderfully cute kids ever, we really enjoyed ourselves and it was a great way to end the day!’ After the sing-song Khaleel showed his paintings and work to the awed kids and encouraged them to follow their dreams.
SkyBorn would like to thank Fahan Chisti, the kids of Wardle High School, the kids at the local Jamia Mosque and every one at Crescent Community Radio for the warm hospitably and great food!
...................................................................................................................
Khaleel on MySpace.com
You can watch Khaleel’s videos, listen to existing and never before-heard tracks on Khaleel’s MySpace entry. www.myspace.com/khaleelmuhammadlive
...................................................................................................................
Show ‘n’ Tell in Luton
Invited to deliver a workshop to encourage the youth of Luton’s Young Muslims kids and aided by Abdul Mateen and Isha D. Maison, Khaleel showed a selection of his work ranging from airbrush illustrations, graphic design, scripts, cartoons, and music videos to the awed on-lookers. “I was a terrific day! We always get gasps of excitement when Khaleel shows off the range of work he has produced over the years. It’s a great encouragement for kids thinking about a future career in the arts, be it TV, design or writing!’ said SkyBorn’s Isha D. Maison. “Plus it also helps establish the fact that Khaleel is far more than just a nasheed artist – he has so much to offer!”
Any one for Cricket?
After the session Khaleel and his brother Abdul Mateen participated in the indoor cricket match and surprised everyone present – including themselves – with their performance! “I have never been a cricking fan so when the organiser asked me and Abdul Mateen to take part I though we’d be bowled out in one wicket! But we were all surprised when Abdul Mateen and I bowled out a bater on the first innings – beginners luck or wot?!”
SkyBorn would like to thank the organisers and all the kids and sisters at the who attended on the day.
...................................................................................................................
Khaleels interview on Unity TV
Khaleel joined long time friend Yusuf Chambers for a live interview on Unity TV. Yusuf delved in to Khaleel’s past and even invited him to sing live on air. “Yusuf is an old friend of mine so I felt very comfortable with him while on screen.” Commented Khaleel, Yusuf (who plays officer Bingley in the soon to be released Adventures of Hakim:2 audio story) took Khaleel through his conversion to Islam, his thoughts on the state of the youth and future plans. Khaleel performed live with a few verses from ‘Heaven’ and ‘Streetwise Believer’.
Khaleel’s interview with Yusuf Chambers can be view periodically on Unity TV (Sky platform 825).
For more about Unity TV visit: www.itihad.tv
...................................................................................................................
Khaleel performs in Canary Wharf
Khaleel and guitarist Dan Plews took to the stage at the annual gathering of the Canary Wharf Muslim Association. Also in attendance was Lord Rotherham and singer songwriter Dawud Wharnsby Ali.
The performance was video taped by Islam Channel so watch out for it on sky platform 813.
...................................................................................................................
Wedding
Khaleel was honoured to perform at the wedding of Eve and Imran Choudry. We wish them all the best for the future and prays that Allah will shower them with everlasting love and blessings – Ameen
...................................................................................................................
Khaleel and the Stantonbury African Drummers
Khaleel joined the energetic and incredibly talented Stantonbury African Drummers at a live performance at the Milton Keynes hockey stadium. The event, an award ceremony that honoured individuals for their voluntary work, was Khaleels first time as a chorus drummer.
“ The drummers’ mentor and coach Alfons Hanson invited me to join their after-school club and then to perform along with the kids.” Said Khaleel “After only one session with the drummers I knew I had joined a group of very special and extremely talented kids. Normally as a performer I’m out front alone but it was a real pleasure to be sat amongst such groovy drummers!”
SkyBorn would like to thank Alfons and the kids of the Stantonbury African Drummers for the pleasure of their company and look forward to more of such outings– roll on the next show!
...................................................................................................................
Khaleel and members of his recording company Meem, were invited to attend the Islamic Relief branch in Holland for a fund raiser in aid of the devastating war in Lebanon. “The trip was a great opportunity to hi light the plight of our 
brothers and sisters in Lebanon. I jumped at the chance to go.’ Said Khaleel. After a 45-minute plane flight the guys were meet at the airport and taken 
directly to the venue. Still an unknown artist in Amsterdam, Khaleel soon won new friends as he launched in to a 45 minute set performing songs from ‘Heaven’ and ‘Dhikr of life’. Soon after he was swamped by supporters as he signed autographs, posed for pictures and was video tapped for a local TV station. 
Also performing on the night was Zain Bhikah. “The Muslims of Amsterdam gave us one of the warmest welcomes I’ve experienced to date. It was encouraging to see so many young people getting involved on all levels of the event from volunteering, stage managing and ticket sales. This confirms my belief that the youth will lead us into a bright future and judging by the hard work I witnessed in Amsterdam, our future is in good hands – Alhamdulliah!” 
Khaleel and the Meem team would like to thank the organisers and the many young men and women of Amsterdam.
All pictures courtesy of Meem Music
...................................................................................................................
KHALEEL AND THE BOSNIAN ORPHANS
Whilst visiting the UK as part of the World Life Trust student excursion plan, Khaleel was delighted to perform a number of songs from his albums ‘Heaven’ and ‘Dhikr of Life’ to the Bosnian orphans. Organised by sister Fatima of the World Life Trust, the event was a real delight as Khaleel got the children 
singing, clapping and having a jolly good laugh – which also extended to on lookers from homes the across street!
“The moment I heard about the World Life Trust and the fantastic work they are doing, I wanted SkyBorn to be involved.’ comments SkyBorn manager Isha D. Maison “After a few phone calls with Fatima, we arranged the performance and travelled up to London to be a part of their welcome evening. It was an absolute privilege to be involved with the WLT and an even greater privilege to be there to welcome the Bosnian orphans, who were a wonderfully warm, inspiring and vibrant group of young people.’ 
Khaleel also had the privilege of getting down with the local rapping talents.
All pictures by Josh Maison
SkyBorn would like to thank the World Life Trust and the delightful youngsters from Bosnia.
.........................................................................................................................
KHALEEL PERFORM IN CANADA
Khaleels first trip to Canada certainly started off with a real blast because by 9.30am he was invited to perform for 200 screaming and delighted children at a local Muslim school. Next up was a local madrasa straight after Jumuah prayers were Khaleel had the children (and adults) clapping, singing and giving loud takbirs until they were horse!! The following day was equally energetic as Khaleel and Meem staff Alim Ali and, all the way from Oklahoma, Adam Soltani attended a prestigious fundraiser which also featured Imam Malik Johari from Washington. “It was brilliant to see Imam Johari again since the Celebrate Eid tour back in November 2005. We formed a firm bond since our meeting and it was fantastic to spend time with this inspiring brother!’ said Khaleel.
The next day the pressure was still on as Khaleel attended the local community radio station and met up with record label mates Seven 8 Six. That same evening they performed for the Canada branch of ISNA were Khaleel performed for over 300 in attendance, recorded an interview and signed CD’s from the delighted well wishers.
Khaleel would like to thank all in attendance for an unforgettable two days, especially Adam Soltani and Alim Ali and his wonderful family
.........................................................................................................................
SkyBorn at the Islam Expo!
Attending the last two days of the Islam Expo at Alexandra Palace from 6th-9th July, the SkyBorn team certainly made their presense felt.
Chilling out on the Meem booth, Khaleel and the SBT greeted friends, showed videos, gave out sweets, signed autographs and had a thoroughly good time.
Also in attendance was SkyBorns newest member Abdul Mateen. No you're not seeing double, Abdul Mateen is Khaleels older brother.
"Its fantastic to have Abdul Mateen on the 
team. Not only is he the hardest working man I know and not only is he the funniest guy alive but he's one of my biggest influences while I was growing up. He paved the way for my art so I think the world of him!"
Its appropriate that Abdul Mateen should be wearing a styalised Superman t-shirt because superheroes were a steady diet for the two brothers growing up in London.
Also in attendance was American comedian from the famous Allah Made Funny tour: Preacher Moss and from the Meem label Shaam.
SkyBorn would like to thank all the Meem staff: Tayyeb, Adam, Atiff, Waleed and Mustafa.
All pictures by Josh Maison
.........................................................................................................................
Khaleel and the kids of Slough!
Make way for the brilliant kids of Slough! On the 14th July Khaleel and the SkyBorn team visited the local fete in Slough Mosque.
Every one loves a summer fete and that includes the SkyBorn team. Not only did Khaleel give a rousing performance with a sing-a-long and drumming but he also met the kids and their parents who had a fun day with face painting, henna decorations, a bouncy castle and general stalls with goodies. Later Khaleel signed autographs and posed for photos with the kids.
Khaleel making new friends
The Adventures of Hakim:2 - Recordings!
Next up and with the kind permission of the Fete organisers, Khaleel gathered 50-60 kids and retreated to the upper rooms of the mosque and set about recording crowd parts for the up coming The Adventures of Hakim:2 audio CD.
As well as featuring members of rap group Mecca2Medina and nasheed group Seven 8 Six, the AOH:2 is filled with kids in various situations facing danger, dilemma and fun! 
Handling the recodring chores was Najib Bateman who recorded the original AOH back in 1999.
"I needed Najibs vibes on this second AOH and it was fantastic to have him on board!" said Khaleel.
SkyBorn photographer Joshua Maison said. "It was brilliant! Khaleel had the kids shouting, screaming and acting on cue. I had a great time and so did the kids!"
Kids gathered for the recording
The group of children also included Khaleels nephew Liam and beautiful niece Tanita who also recorded parts back in 1999 for the original AOH. "We really enjoyed it and can't wait the for CD to come out." said Tanita who had henna all over her hand.
Khaleel poses with older kids who played Sharkeys rowdy gang. "I secretly thought Khaleel was going to be swamped with all those nosiey kids but they were so well behaved and had the time of their lives!" Commented SkyBorn manager Isha D. Maison
Here Khaleel hangs out with the some of the kids in attendance. Wow look at those smiles!
All pictures by Josh Maison
"The day was a great success, the children of Slough are gems. I've said it before and I'll say it again: our kids are the brightest, warmest and most loving kids in the world - I am very proud of them!" said Khaleel "Hey if any of the kids there that day see themselves in these pictures, we will send you the picture via email!"
SkyBorn would like to thank sister Amna and the Slough Mosque, school and community for an unforgettable day.
(Khaleels t-shirt supplied by: www.wearaloud.com)
.........................................................................................................
Ramadan is over and its time to Celebrate Eid! Get ready for the UK’s biggest nasheed and entertainment tour to ever hit the UK! Spread over 6 dates; 5-6th and 10-11-2-13th November 2005 host cities of Bradford, Manchester, Cardiff, Edinburgh, London and Birmingham will be dazzled by the finest nasheed artists and entertainers the Muslim world has to offer.
Khaleel rocks the house at the Celebrate Eid show Novemeber 2005
The line-up includes: Khaleel Muhammad introducing his critically
acclaimed and highly anticipated album release ‘Dhikr of Life’.
Also featured...
 |  |
| Raihan | Seven 8 Six |
 |   |
| Aashiq Al Rasul | Preacher Moss & Azhar Usman |
Aashiq Al Rasul who have just released their latest nasheed masterpiece; ‘Sultan of Madina’, comedy acts Allah Made Me Funny comprising of Preacher Moss and Ashar Usman, boy band sensation 786 promoting their brand spanking new album ‘Straight Path’ and the one and only world renowned Malaysian super group Raihan. Providing the inspirational talk for the events will be US based Imam Johari Abdul-Malik a well-known scholar and student of Imam Siraj Wahaj.
Welcome: LongZ
Khaleel and new SkyBorn drummer LongZ (pronounced Long Zee) began rehearsing for the gruelling 6-city Celebrate Eid tour.
I’m really looking forward to this tour’ says Khaleel in between rehearsals. ‘…and with new comer LongZ on board I wonder if I’ll ever perform solo again. LongZ is my old time musical and rhythmic mentor. We grew up together so you can image what a pleasure it is to welcome him on the team. On drums she’s cheeky, slick and deadly! Just the way I like it!!’ (laughs). Recalling their childhood Khaleel says of LongZ: ‘This brother taught me most of what I know regarding music today. He was the very first person who ever suggested that I should taking up singing seriously and had me sing on his old demos years ago - I still have the old tapes somewhere to prove it!’
Certainly no stranger to the music industry LongZ has had a long and glittering career as a solo artist in his own right producing classics such as ‘Dis is Ska’ and ‘Hip-Hip Reggae’.
He has also acted as drummer, songwriter, producer and engineer for a variety of artists and bands including: China Black and Wycliffe Jean to name only a few.
Recently LongZ has contributed his production skills on four of the tracks from Khaleel’s Dhikr of Life album. ‘Long Ago – 610’, ‘I Believe’ and interludes ‘His Power’ and ‘I Believe-Gabriel Hadith’, where all co-produced by LongZ and Khaleel.
‘Its brilliant to be playing with my old friend again. Khaleel has grown so much as an artist since those early days in my bedroom where we recorded my old demo’s. I’m really looking forward to tearing up the venues we are scheduled to play during the Celebrate Eid tour – it’s going to be riot!’ (laughs – very, very heartily!)