Episode 21

full
Published on:

6th Jun 2025

Part 2-- Comedy, Identity & Jazz (Preacher Moss)

🎙️ The American Muslim Podcast

Episode Title: “Preacher Moss on Comedy, Identity & Jazz (Part 2)”

Guest: Preacher Moss


Host: Imam Tariq I. El-Amin


Presented by: BAYAN On Demand

🎧 Episode Summary:

In Part 2 of this illuminating conversation, Imam Tariq sits down once again with legendary comedian and cultural truth-teller Preacher Moss to unpack the layered role of humor, history, and responsibility in the lives of African American Muslims. From the quiet strength of the community elders to the lessons learned through teaching “severely emotionally disturbed” students, Preacher Moss reveals how comedy isn’t just performance—it’s pedagogy.


Together, they reflect on:




  • The wisdom of Imam Warith Deen Mohammed and being called to be a "master teacher" rather than just a comedian



  • The spiritual depth behind the Allah Made Me Funny tour and how it rewired communities



  • Jazz as metaphor, structure, and survival



  • How Muslim identity and Black struggle remain intertwined—and why this legacy matters



  • The challenges and joy of crafting creative resistance in a soundbite culture



  • The birth and mission of The Shout Out Show



  • What it means to live as a Muslim in public with purpose and integrity


This episode is a symphony of memory, laughter, and deep insight—a blueprint for how to be Black, Muslim, creative, and alive in America.


🔊 Notable Quotes:


“The classroom is my comedy. And if you can reach the lowest common denominator and lift that up—you lift everybody up.” — Preacher Moss

“We didn’t walk to our Shahadah. We ran to it.”

“Muslim identity without public witness is a missed opportunity for transformation.”

đź“ş Watch Preacher Moss on:






đź“š Learn more:



  • Presented by BAYAN On Demand — Courses in Islamic theology, nonprofit leadership, Islamic history, and more: www.BayanOnline.org



Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for The American Muslim Podcast

About the Podcast

The American Muslim Podcast
The voices, stories, and perspectives shaping the American Muslim Experience
The American Muslim Podcast is your gateway to exploring the diverse and dynamic stories shaping the American Muslim experience. Hosted by Imam Tariq I. El-Amin, and brought to you by Bayan On Demand, this podcast shines a spotlight on the voices of leaders who are making a profound impact in their communities—many of whom are students, alumni, and visiting faculty of Bayan Islamic Graduate School.

From imams and chaplains to Islamic school leaders, teachers, scholars, and non-profit pioneers, we celebrate those who dedicate themselves to serving others. These inspiring individuals include masjid leaders, community activists, and youth mentors who exemplify the values of faith, compassion, and resilience in their work.

Through insightful conversations and authentic narratives, we explore how these leaders navigate faith, identity, and service, offering a unique perspective on the evolving role of American Muslims in shaping society. Join us to uncover the stories of those who lead with purpose and embody the transformative mission of Bayan.

About your host

Profile picture for Tariq El-Amin

Tariq El-Amin

Imam Tariq I. El-Amin serves as the Resident Imam of Masjid Al-Taqwa in Chicago, IL. He is the founder of the Chicago Black Muslim History Tour and the former host of Sound Vision's Radio Islam, a nightly talk radio program that aired in the Chicago market. Tariq is a recipient of the Muhammad Ali Scholarship and earned a Master of Divinity in Islamic Chaplaincy from Bayan Islamic Graduate School in 2022. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Ministry in Islamic Community Leadership at Bayan, with expected completion in 2026. Tariq is also a producer of the award-winning UIC Black Excellence podcast, hosted by Dr. Aisha El-Amin, and lends his voice to narrating audiobooks.