Sami Yusuf

This two-stringed instrument has woven its way through centuries, evoking deep emotion and painting vivid images of nature and human life. From ancient folk songs to modern orchestras, the erhu’s voice remains timeless.

Music: ‘Karitas’ by Sami Yusuf
Erhu: Guo Gan

#erhu #rediscoveringtradition #samiyusuf

- Exclusive content
- Behind the Scenes
- Articles on music, philosophy and spirituality
- Preview of new compositions and tracks (before they’re released)
- Exclusive Audio, Video and Visual libraries

Just some of the items we could potentially include 💛

https://youtube.com/shorts/fGTzY1D8KXc?si=mBGRVlqYBjZgvjya

May 2025 bring peace to hearts and harmony to our world. With love. SY

#samiyusuf #newyear

بالذي أسكَرَ مِن عَذْبِ اللَّمَا
كُلّ كأسٍ تَحتَسيهِ وَحَبَبْ

والَّذي كَحَّلَ جَفنَيكَ بِما
سَجَدَ السِحرُ لَدَيهِ واقتَرَب

Renowned Moroccan vocalist Nabyla Maan adds the richness of the Arabic lyrics to ‘En al-Ándalus’ in this excerpt.

#samiyusuf #enalándalus

‘En al-Ándalus’ is a tribute to the enduring beauty of Andalusian culture and artistry. This segment adds the sound of flamenco to the piece through José Manuel León's masterful performance on guitar and Israel Moro’s expressive vocals. Lyrics are based on writings of San Juan de la Cruz. 

Rhythmic palmas join in celebration, bringing together a vibrant harmony of sound and profound emotion. My deepest thanks to the extraordinary musicians who made this journey so vibrant and meaningful. Together, we present a piece that embodies hope, love, and the promise of a brighter future.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/En-al-Andalus

#samiyusuf #enalándalus

Follow me on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/samiyusuf.bsky.social

‘En al-Ándalus’ (also known as ‘Jadaka Al-Ghaith’) is a piece born from hope—a call to remember a golden age of beauty, tolerance, and culture, and a promise that such days may return. With heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary musicians who joined me on this journey. When Nabyla Maan’s luminous voice joins, it becomes a guiding light, carrying this vision with elegance and grace. Together, we offer not only a memory but a call to believe in the beauty yet to come.

With love, SY.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/En-al-Andalus

#samiyusuf #enalandalus #alma

‘En al-Ándalus’ is my reimagining of Ibn al-Khatib’s muwashshah ‘Jadaka al-Ghaith’ in which I bring this much-loved piece back to its Andalusian and European roots. I arranged it in a Western scale with echoes of the Celtic influence found on the Iberian Peninsula at the time of its origin over six centuries ago. This magical muwashshah has been interpreted in different countries according to their own modal sensibilities. Fairuz’s popular version used the quarter tones with which her audience in the Levant was familiar, for example.

For me, I wanted a sound reflecting European and Andalusian folk influences that would have been likely heard at the courts in Spain and so I removed the quarter tone. Then, into a lush rendering of Ibn al-Khatib’s dreamy portrait of a rain-drenched night of love and stars, I introduce a newly composed section for flamenco guitar and Spanish vocals featuring lyrics from San Juan de la Cruz’s ‘Dark Night of the Soul’.

‘En al-Ándalus’ was performed live on traditional instruments to an overflow audience at the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music. It is my hope that you hear in it more than a spellbinding tale from a golden time now past where arts and culture and tolerance once flourished. I hope that you hear in it a promise of such a time yet to come.

Deep thanks to the extraordinary musicians who accompanied me on this journey.

With love, SY

From Sami Yusuf’s album Alma.
Recorded live at the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music.

Featured vocalists:
Sami Yusuf
Nabyla Maan
Ismail Boujia
Israel Moro

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/En-al-Andalus

#samiyusuf #enalandalus #alma

Make sure to click the notification bell for the YouTube Premiere of my new piece, ‘En Al Ándalus’, this Saturday, November 9th at 3pm GMT. Set a reminder, and I’ll see you there!

https://youtu.be/HZ_j9qlmdSI?si=5EMSwVZ_w9-CU1U7

Join me at 3 pm (GMT) on the 9th of November for the YouTube premiere of ‘En Al Ándalus’ — the second video release from my new album Alma.

See you there! SY

https://youtu.be/HZ_j9qlmdSI?si=r4fFpcA5OHiaQIKL

#SamiYusuf #enalándalus

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’ — a beautiful dialogue between flamenco and classical guitars, the haunting sound of the balaban, and other traditional instruments. Each instrument adds its unique voice, blending seamlessly to create a rich and timeless musical experience.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’ composed by Sami Yusuf.

This piece begins with the powerful vocals of Israel Moro, followed by the brilliant musicians of the SY ensemble, creating a moving experience at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

What’s your favourite moment from this performance?

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #ALMA

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.
Balaban section performed beautifully by Magsad Azizov

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

Excerpt from ‘Ven Mi Alma’ from the album ‘ALMA’.

Composed by Sami Yusuf
Performed at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fes, Morocco.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/VenMiAlma

#samiyusuf #venmialma

‘Ven Mi Alma’ is a piece that is incredibly dear to my heart. It’s a celebration of world music traditions, blending Western and Eastern classical music with the rich heritage of Central Asia, the Middle East, and the spirit of Al-Andalus—a time when the Iberian Peninsula thrived as a beacon of knowledge, coexistence, and artistic brilliance.

The piece opens with the captivating voice of Israel Moro, instantly transporting us to Andalusia, where its essence is immediately felt. The soulful call of the ney, performed beautifully by Tolga Saracoglu, speaks directly to the soul, while Antoine’s beautiful performance on classical guitar maintains the pulse of the entire composition. Fiery and spirited flamenco guitars by José Manuel Léon and Tarik Hilal then join, infusing the piece with vibrant energy.

A beautiful dialogue unfolds between the Balaban, played by Maqsad Azizov, and the orchestra, creating a profound exchange that continues until we reach a symphony of voices. Led by myself, alongside the incredible talents of Nabyla Maan, Ismail Boujia, and Israel Moro, this vocal section becomes an expression of unity in diversity. Though each voice is distinct, there is an underlying, unseen essence that binds us all—a shared soul that transcends individual expression.

What follows is a dreamlike passage, where the Balaban and guitars gently lead the listener into a state of transcendence, evoking a deep sense of peace. The culmination of "Ven Mi Alma" is an ecstatic dance between the Balaban and the orchestra, a call and response that celebrates the unity of all musical traditions and the profound dialogue of the soul.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who came to Fes, Morocco, for the 2024 Fes Festival of Sacred Music, where tickets were sold out months in advance. It was an honor to perform and debut these pieces at such a significant event. I’m very selective with my performances, and this one will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you again, and more to follow soon.


Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/Alma

With love and gratitude,

Sami Yusuf

#samiyusuf #venmialma

I’m extremely delighted to announce my new release, ‘ALMA’. This album is dear to my heart, and it’s been a true honor to work with all the brilliant musicians who have poured their hearts into these compositions.

Performed live at the historic Bab Al Makina in Fez (Morocco) at the Fes Festival, ‘ALMA’ is a celebration of the rich and diverse cultures of World Music Traditions, the soulful rhythms of Flamenco, and the timeless beauty of Western and Eastern Classical Music. It honors the legacy of the great poets and sages of history, bringing their profound wisdom into the very essence of the music.
I’m deeply grateful to the exceptional musicians and soloists who have joined me on this journey: Nabyla Maan from the historic city of Fez, whose connection to the music adds a special resonance to this album; Ismail Boujia from Morocco, whose evocative voice brings depth to every note; Israel Moro from Andalusia, Spain, embodying the heart of Flamenco; José Manuel Léon on flamenco guitar from Andalusia, Spain; Antoine Morinière on classical guitar from Paris, France; Magsad Azizov on balaban from Baku, Azerbaijan; and Mohammad Jaberi on daf, joining us from London, UK.

A heartfelt thank you to all the other wonderful musicians joining us from Turkey, Germany, Iran and from Morocco itself. As with any composition, the music is only as good as the team performing it, and I’m deeply grateful for the countless hours of rehearsals and dedication they have put into bringing this album to life.

Performing live is always a challenge, and every musician listening will know just how difficult it is to perform well. I’m delighted with the final outcome of ‘ALMA’.

I also want to extend my gratitude to Arash Pakzad and Vishnu Rajan for their exceptional work in mixing this live album so beautifully.

Thank you so much, and I hope you enjoy listening to ‘ALMA’. With love and gratitude,

Sami Yusuf

Listen to ‘ALMA’ now: https://sy.lnk.to/Alma

#samiyusuf #alma

I’m excited to announce my upcoming release, ‘Alma’, an album blending Flamenco with Eastern and Western Classical Music. It’s been a journey of love, and I can’t wait for you to experience it on 2nd September, 2024. 

Pre-save here: SY.lnk.to/Alma

#samiyusuf #alma

I’m so happy to finally be able to share the pre-save and pre-add link for my new album, ‘Ecstasy’.

I’m eager for you to experience the culmination of this journey on 1st November, 2024.

Pre-save New Album ‘ECSTASY’ now: https://www.ecstasyalbum.com

#samiyusuf #ecstasyalbum

Gittim divane oldum,
bağlandım zincirlere

Bir ölüydüm canla doldum;
ağlar idim gülüş oldum

Aşk devleti gelince ben,
sonsuzluk devleti buldum

I was sane, you drove me mad
You put chains on my hands

I was dead, I came alive
I once wept, now I smile

The power of love came to me
I became that infinite power

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/IHaveComeAlive

#samiyusuf #ihavecomealive

This performance of ‘Mast Qalandar’ at Al Wasl Dome is close to my heart. A tribute to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and the rich legacy of Qawwali music.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/MastQalandarLive

#samiyusuf #nusratfatehalikhan

Experience the full concert ‘When Paths Meet’ (Vol. I) now on YouTube.

Performed at Amsterdam’s Royal Concertgebouw
Cappella Amsterdam
The Amsterdam Andalusian Orchestra
The Sami Yusuf Ensemble

Watch the full concert: https://sy.lnk.to/WPM-Vol.1-YT

#samiyusuf #whenpathsmeetvol1

I was honoured to debut my composition ‘I Have Come Alive’ at Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai. Rumi’s profound poetry on spiritual rebirth resonated deeply, beautifully translated into English, Arabic, and Turkish. Deep appreciation to the extraordinary team and musicians who brought this vision to life.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/IHaveComeAlive

#samiyusuf #IHaveComeAlive

This performance of ‘The Wine of Love’ (which was a new composition that premiered here) is one of my favorites from my concert at the iconic Al Wasl dome in Expo City. Music captures the depth and beauty of our shared journey and is a reminder of the love that flows through every beat of our lives.

Listen/Watch: https://sy.lnk.to/TheWineOfLove

#samiyusuf #thewineoflove

Excerpt from ‘Existentia’ from my upcoming 'Ecstasy' album.

Composed, Arranged, Produced & Performed by Sami Yusuf 
Words by Bayazid Bastami & Rumi 
Featuring Homayoun Shajarian

Watch Now: https://sy.lnk.to/Existentia/youtube

#Existentia #samiyusuf #EcstasyAlbum #homayounshajarian

Neither eye nor sight,
but the secret of the inner being,

Neither limited by death nor span of life;
there is nothing perishable nor enduring.

Excerpt from ‘Existentia’ from my upcoming ‘Ecstasy’ album.

Composed, Arranged, Produced & Performed by Sami Yusuf
Words by Bayazid Bastami & Rumi
Featuring Homayoun Shajarian

Watch Now: https://sy.lnk.to/Existentia/youtube

#samiyusuf #homayounshajarian

Instrumental excerpt from ‘Existentia’ from my upcoming 'Ecstasy' album.

Composed, Arranged, Produced & Performed by Sami Yusuf
Words by Bayazid Bastami & Rumi
Featuring Homayoun Shajarian  

Watch Now: https://sy.lnk.to/Existentia/youtube

#samiyusuf #homayounshajarian

Passage from my latest composition ‘Existentia’, the first release from my forthcoming album ‘Ecstasy’ 💛

Composed, Arranged, Produced & Performed by Sami Yusuf
Words by Bayazid Bastami & Rumi
Featuring Homayoun Shajarian  

Watch Now: https://sy.lnk.to/Existentia/youtube

#samiyusuf #homayounshajarian