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BIOGRAPHY: RAMEEN SHARIF

Rameen Sharif was born in a musically rich family; others view him as a producer, composer, singer, recording engineer, musician and exhilarating live performer. Early influences include his uncle and also his master Habib Sharif who is known for his compositions and fusion music, and his respected father, Sakhi Sharif who has been always there for him. Rameen began his career at the age of five. Ever since he was a child, he heard the strings of music ringing through his house. He got his first taste of performing at the age of six, in a live concert on the stage with percussion, where he was supported and accompanied by his uncle Habib Sharif. When he reached the age of nine he started playing various instruments, and received an authorization from the government of Afghanistan for being a mesmerizing musician at a very young age. He knew the quality of his talents very well and wanted to maximize those talents. He successfully finished high school in Toronto in 2002, and is currently attending Humber College for computer engineering, music recording and editing.

His younger brothers Omar and Haroon Sharif are a big part of his success. Omar Sharif is an accomplished keyboard player and composer. Besides being a talented singer and a musician he can be also termed as a versatile ghazal singer. Haroon Sharif plays drums. These Sharif brothers are always in need of each other and are together at concerts, shows and recordings.

Rameen’s debut albums “Hina” (2001), was sung by Rameen, Omar and Habib Sharif and choreographed by Rameen Sharif. After the complete success of CD “Hina” he created his solo album “Nazdeek” (2002), and was incredibly recognized by everyone especially for its song “Amina” in Afghanistan and achieved best status. After all these great successes, Rameen and Omar recorded and released their third album called “Wedding Dance”(2003), which contained hits for party fans and an additional two amazing Ghazals which delightfully met with varying degrees of success. Apart from their amazing albums in 2004, their live performance did not only take place in Toronto, but also in Dubai, where they overwhelmed audiences of 3000 with their mind blowing music. Their first DVD from their live concert was also released in the year of 2004. Their Ghazals were admired very much by Ghazal devotees. After getting a lot of great feedbacks and compliments Rameen and Omar decided to make a complete Ghazal CD.
Their latest album, “Taaj Aroos” (enchanting) which contains double disk, a dancing CD and a Ghazal CD, are more mature compilation of personal and romantic songs which has plenty of listeners. All these albums performed impressively well in Afghanistan and abroad adding a fairly long list of all time favorites. "Technology is great and it works so you use it," Rameen admits, "but I also try to keep things very undemanding. When it comes to music, you cannot pull a whip on yourself. I don't want my voice to sound too technical I want it to sound like me. The way I feel is, I don't have to sound perfect, but my sensation has to nail it. There's nothing scientific about it, it's all about passion I let it flow. If it's real, it stays."


Currently, they are working on their new DVD by Rameen and Omar Sharif along with their new CD by Rameen, Omar and Habib Sharif which are slated for release this year. Rameen Sharif tries to satisfy the demands of various segments in the afghan society. He does this by choosing bewitching lyrics and rhythms. His choice of poetry includes classical Pashto, Dari and Uzbaki poets; he also adapted Indian composition to his lyrics. The Sharif family has been working hard in their lives directing their God-given talents to create a legacy of music for everyone to enjoy. “I have the dream team!” Rameen enthuses about his supporters and co-workers: Habib Sharif (his leader and also uncle with whom, he’s been working since he was a child); Sakhi Sharif (his respected father who plays Tabla), and his younger brothers Omar and Haroon Sharif. They have also created their own studio, “Sharif Music Studio” which is designed to give other artists a relaxed, affordable place to record with outstanding sound, and they also arrange and record music for musicians. “I love experimenting with the new technology, and exploring its amazing possibilities - both for my own work and in production capacity for other artists” says Rameen.

So far Rameen appears to be handling his success well. His biggest flaw which confronts him everyday is the inability to see the big picture, and plan for the future to stay a pop star and accomplish more in order to serve his country and people with the best way of entertainment. Asked if it was a conscious attempt to stick to certain tunes, he said: “No, I am dedicated to experimenting with new styles and forms rather than be taken hostage by success as a commercial artist and thus creating formula music”. I am grateful of everyone who appreciates my music”. What is his dream? “I wish to be a legend like Ustat-Sarahang and Ahmed-Zahir!”
Seemingly, Rameen enjoys a very warm reception and appreciation of all his music fans around the world.