Salim–Sulaiman is an Indian score composer duo consisting of siblings Salim Merchant and Sulaiman Merchant. The duo compose music predominantly for Hindi films.
Life and early career
Salim–Sulaiman's ancestral town is Mundra, Kutch, Gujarat.[1] They were born in Mumbai.[1] Salim Merchant was born on 3 March 1974 and Sulaiman Merchant was born on 21 December 1970.[2] They were inspired by their father Sadruddin Merchant, who used to lead Ismaili Scouts Orchestra in India.[3] Steeped in a family tradition of music as the sons of composer and veteran of the film industry Sadruddin Merchant, Salim mastered the piano on at the Trinity College of Music in London while Sulaiman took up tabla training with such legends as Taufiq Qureshi and Ustad Zakir Hussain.[4] Six years after their first music composition for a Bollywood film, they received acclaim for the film score of Bhoot.
They have worked on a hollywood remix for Lady Gaga's songs Born This Way and Judas.[7][8] They also worked on I'm A Freak By Enrique. The duo did two songs for the Hollywood film Sold.[9] During the 2020 lockdown Salim–Sulaiman released Gandhi Jayanti single with Ricky Kej.[10][11] The duo have produced various tracks in collaboration with a number of indie artists including Shivansh Jindal.[12]
2010 FIFA World Cup
The musical duo collaborated with South African singer Loyiso Bala and Kenyan singer and songwriter Eric Wainaina to record the anthem for 2010 FIFA World Cup. The anthem is the song "Africa – You're A Star".[13][4]
Salim and Sulaiman Merchant, renowned Indian music composers and producers, launched their own record label, Merchant Records, to nurture emerging talent and produce diverse music.[14]
This initiative reflects their commitment to artistic freedom and innovation, allowing them to explore various musical genres without industry constraints. Through Merchant Records, they have collaborated with a range of artists, contributing to the evolution of the Indian music scene. Their YouTube channel, Salim Sulaiman Music, serves as a platform to showcase their work and support new artists. In 2023, they released "Shukranallah," a film directed and written by Shakti Hasija, celebrating their 31-year musical journey.[15]
This endeavor underscores their dedication to both preserving their musical legacy and fostering the growth of upcoming talent in the industry.
Under their label Merchant Records on YouTube, Salim-Sulaiman released albums celebrated the fusion of traditional Indian music with contemporary global sounds, creating a unique auditory experience.
Bhoomi (2020)
Released during the pandemic, Bhoomi (2020) was a musical tribute to Indian culture and spirituality, with each track blending folk traditions and modern music. The album featured collaborations with prominent and upcoming artists. Some notable tracks include:
"Bhoomi 2020 (Intro)" – A powerful instrumental piece introducing the album’s essence.
"Bismillah" featuring Sukhwinder Singh – A Sufi-inspired melody.
"Muraliya" featuring Shreya Ghoshal – A soulful track based on Lord Krishna's flute.
"Sanwal" featuring Ustad Shujaat Khan – A blend of Indian classical music and electronic beats.
"Haq Ali" featuring Raj Pandit – A qawwali-inspired song dedicated to Ali.
Bhoomi (2021)
Bhoomi 2021 delved deeper into Indian folk roots while experimenting with diverse genres. Highlights of this album include:
"Ghoomar" featuring Shreya Ghoshal – A rendition of the traditional Rajasthani folk dance song, enriched with contemporary arrangements.
"Rangreza" featuring Harshdeep Kaur – A Sufi-inspired track that delves into themes of divine love.
"Kesariya Balam" featuring Kaushiki Chakraborty – A modern take on the classic Rajasthani folk song.
"Naino Ki Mat Mari" featuring Rekha Bhardwaj – A rustic folk tune with a contemporary twist.
"Banjara" featuring Papon – A song that captures the nomadic spirit through its melody and lyrics.
"Mast Kalandar" featuring Sukhwinder Singh – An energetic rendition of the popular traditional song.
Bhoomi 2024
Released in early 2025, Bhoomi 2024 features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, furthering the duo's mission to bridge traditional and modern musical expressions. Notable tracks include:
"Morya" featuring Karan Kanchan, Vaishali Samant, and 100RBH – A high-energy track celebrating Lord Ganesha with a fusion of traditional chants and contemporary beats.
"Allah Ke Pyaare Nabi" featuring Richa Sharma and Salim Merchant – A devotional song paying homage to the Prophet Muhammad, blending soulful vocals with serene instrumentation.
"Chunaree" featuring Amit Trivedi, Taylor Jones, and Alawn – A cross-cultural collaboration that marries Indian melodies with global pop influences.
"Chhaila" featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan – A duet that showcases the powerful vocals of two leading singers, set against a backdrop of traditional rhythms.
"Mayavi" featuring Sonu Nigam, Sanjith Hegde, and Nagarjun Sharma – A mystical composition that intertwines classical Indian music with modern soundscapes.
"Mehram" featuring Goldie Sohel and Asees Kaur – A romantic ballad that blends heartfelt lyrics with melodious tunes.
"Jaanaan" featuring Raj Pandit and Gulzar Ahmad Ganaie – A soulful track that delves into themes of love and longing.
"900 Rupiya (Never Let You Go)" featuring Loren Allred – An Indo-Western fusion that combines poignant lyrics with a captivating melody.
"Ujaan" featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Srijato – A melodious song that beautifully blends Bengali poetry with contemporary music.
"Jaan Le Gayi" featuring Sonu Nigam and Vishal Dadlani – An energetic track that combines powerful vocals with dynamic instrumentation.
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