MUSLIM COUNTRY & WESTERN SINGER TO TOUR EUROPE
(24 June 2008)

Kareem Salama, the first Muslim Country and Western sensation to storm America, is due to begin his first European tour this July. Already a big hit in the States, the American Embassy is touring Kareem to select cities in Europe. Many consider Kareem somewhat unusual in the country music scene, given his ethnic background and Islamic faith, especially in post-9/11 America, but Kareem draws inspiration from his multicultural upbringing to create music that is reflective of Americas ideologies of cultural diversity.

Born and raised in Oklahoma, America, 30-year old Kareem is of Egyptian descent and was immersed into the American culture as a child. His open-minded and exploratory parents took him and his siblings to watch live country music shows, local cowboy rodeos and even took them Opryland Theme Park, which was inspired by the infamous Grand Ole Opry country radio show in Nashville, Tennessee.

Kareem's music is essentially country/western, but he fuses poetic Sufism and other musical elements including pop, rock and folk. He writes his own songs, which convey the universal moral messages of love, relationships and family values. Kareem Salama said: I've just always found expressing myself through songs a soothing and cathartic practice. But a series of events has led me to this endeavour. I dont presume to make any grandiose statements about how my music will change the industry or change the world. My hope is that my words will fall upon ears and hearts that may be seeking the same thing I am seekingthe inspiration to live a virtuous life that is pleasing to God".

With two albums already under his belt, This Life of Mine (2007) and Generous Peace (2006), Kareem will be singing tracks from both on his tour.

For further information visit www.kareemsalama.com

TOUR DATES

• 4th July London, Celebrations @ American Ambassadors residence
• 5th July Germany, Berlin Amerika Fest, Berlin Gate
• 12th July UK Americana Festival
• 13th July UK London Olympia Islam Expo
• 15th July France EURO Disney
• 17th July Italy, Genoa - International Valle Christi festival at Valle Christi Monumental
• 19th July Italy, University of Rome "La Sapienza" - Piazzale Aldo Moro
• 20th July Italy, Jazz & Image at Villa Celimontana - Piazza della Navicell