Syeikh Abdul Karim

Sholawat is an Indonesian Islamic devotional song tradition centered on lyrical praises and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (salawat). It bridges Arabic liturgical poetry with local musical aesthetics, most commonly voiced in Arabic and Indonesian. Traditionally performed in pesantren (Islamic boarding schools), mosques, and community gatherings such as maulid and haul commemorations, sholawat relies on call-and-response vocals and frame-drum ensembles (rebana/terbangan, hadrah, marawis). In contemporary practice, it also appears in pop-influenced formats with keyboards, oud (gambus), violin, bass, and light percussion, making it accessible to younger audiences while retaining its devotional core. Melodically, sholawat often draws on maqam (modal) flavors such as Hijaz, Bayati, and Nahawand, with ornamental, melismatic singing. Its rhythmic palette spans simple 2/4 and 4/4 grooves to Middle Eastern-derived patterns (e.g., malfuf and wahda), adapted to Indonesian ensemble practices.

Zikir (also spelled Dhikr) is a genre of Islamic devotional music and recitation centered on the rhythmic repetition of the names of God (Allah) and supplications. While rooted in religious worship, it has evolved into a distinct musical form characterized by hypnotic vocal chants, often accompanied by minimal percussion or performed a cappella. The genre ranges from traditional Sufi ceremonies, where the recitation induces a trance-like state, to contemporary pop-influenced recordings known as 'Zikir Terapi' (Therapy Zikir) designed for relaxation and spiritual healing.