Mohammed Zaheer

This interview with Mohammed Zaheer, a Milton Keynes–based producer and musician, explores his journey into hip-hop production, his independent career, and the unexpected path that led him into creating music for professional wrestling. Born in Rochdale in 1987 and moving to Milton Keynes at the age of eight, he was first introduced to hip-hop through his older brothers, particularly after watching films like Juice and Above the Rim. Artists such as Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg shaped his early musical tastes, but it was the production side of hip-hop that captured his imagination most strongly.

As a teenager, Zaheer began experimenting with making beats using basic software and samples, teaching himself through trial and error long before online tutorials were widely available. Early access to a studio at the MADCAP community arts centre in Wolverton helped him learn recording techniques and meet other young musicians. Although he enjoyed rap, he gravitated toward production, inspired by figures such as DJ Premier, J Dilla and Timbaland, and developed his skills independently, often working alone rather than as part of a group.

In the late 2000s and early 2010s, he began collaborating with artists online through platforms like MySpace, which enabled him to connect with rappers beyond Milton Keynes. A major step came in 2012 with his producer release Assemble, featuring several established UK rappers. The track gained airplay on BBC 1Xtra and led to performances on the BBC Introducing stage at Reading and Leeds Festival, where he created a unique live set combining laptop production with a band and guest vocalists.

Zaheer has remained committed to working independently, preferring creative control and ownership of his music rather than signing to a label. Over time he shifted from heavy sampling toward composing original material and learning instruments such as keyboards to expand his sound. In 2020, he independently produced a new version of the classic I Got 5 On It, collaborating directly with the original singer Michael Marshall after contacting him online.

Alongside music, a long-standing love of professional wrestling opened a new creative path. He began producing entrance themes for wrestlers, starting with a track made for Nick Aldis, which led to further commissions and international exposure. This work has grown into a niche career, with his music used by wrestlers across major promotions and independent shows worldwide, and even led him to train and compete as a wrestler himself.

Reflecting on Milton Keynes, Zaheer describes it as creative but still developing its identity. He believes local artists often gain recognition elsewhere before receiving support at home, and stresses the importance of community backing to help hip-hop culture grow. Overall, his story highlights independence, curiosity and adaptability, showing how following personal passions can lead to unexpected opportunities.