From Music to Islam: Ismail's Journey
Ismail (formerly Louie)
My Life Before Islam
Before Islam, Ismael (then Louie) described his life as living in a "bubble" and a state of "deception."
He considered music to be his "first religion" and his way of life. He reached a point where he viewed music as a "god".
He grew up with a Jewish cultural background from his mother's side, attended synagogue on weekends, and had a Bar Mitzvah at age 13.
Despite finding success in the music industry, he felt increasingly unhappy. He noted that the more success he achieved, the more problems and stress he encountered.
The Moment of Guidance
His journey began after watching a BBC documentary called The Secret Life of Chaos. Seeing the perfect order in the universe confirmed for him that there must be a Creator.
He had an English translation of the Quran that had sat on his shelf for nearly two years. During a period of heavy stress and a "tight chest," he decided to pick it up.
He started reading from Surah Al-Fatiha and moved into Surah Al-Baqarah. Verses 11 and 12, which discuss mischief-makers who claim to be peacemakers, resonated with him deeply because they reminded him of people he encountered in the music industry.
As he read, he felt a physical sensation of the "weight of the world" being lifted from his shoulders.
Eventually, he approached brothers at a mosque and told them he wanted to become Muslim, subsequently taking his Shahada.
Reflections
Ismael describes the change as seeing the world through "different glasses," stating that Allah took the cover off his heart.
He believes that the "love of Quran and the love of music do not mix in the heart," describing music as a distraction and an illusion compared to the peace found in the remembrance of Allah.
He faced significant trials, particularly with his mother, who was very upset and cried when he first told her. However, their relationship has since improved, especially after the birth of his son, Ibrahim.
He reflects on Verse 20 of Surah Al-Hadid, which describes the life of this world as "deception," noting that his previous lifestyle in clubs and the music business was exactly that.
His ultimate wish is to study Islam at the Islamic University of Madinah to bring authentic knowledge back to his family and community.