About Ahmad Zahir Ahmad Zahir (Persian: احمد ظاهر - Aḥmad Zāhir; 14 June 1946 – 14 June 1979), was an Afghan singer, songwriter, and composer. A celebrity of enduring popularity more than a quarter century after his death, he is considered an icon of music in Afghanistan. Ahmad Zahir is sometimes called as The King of Afghan Music. Zahir is remembered as having a style similar to Elvis Presley. Some of his songs also show evidence of influence from English and Hindi songs. Yet Zahir is known for his unique touch and soulful interpretations.