Biography

Inspired by the the age-old use of song to unite people in their common experiences, joys and struggles ~ Canadian born Community Musician Dawud Wharnsby began sharing his tunes as a street performer in his late teens. Over thirty years later, his efforts have yielded over fifteen albums, five poetry anthologies, numerous sound-track credits, performances in some of the world’s most notorious theatres and collaborations with several celebrated artists. In time-honoured, old-time/folk-music custom, Wharnsby’s songs have taken on lives of their own over the years. His melodies can be heard ringing out around the world in primary schools, universities, places of worship, rallies, conventions and sing-a-longs ~ his lyrics having found their way into the hearts of listeners regardless of age. As a voice for the socially conscious and spiritually motivated, Dawud’s poetry anthologies, recordings, articles and intimate live performances have inspired a generation of educators, musicians, poets, artists and professionals. Within sacred-music circles, Wharnsby is cited as a pioneer in the composition of English "anasheed", hymns inspired by Sufi tradition. His work has been referenced in textbook publications affiliated with Harvard University in the USA, as well as Oxford University, Edinburgh University and Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. Dawud currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.