Omar burst onto the UK and world music scene as a prodigious young teenage talent, and was signed to the Talkin' Loud label in the early 90s. Emerging from the London Acid Jazz scene alongside seminal groups like The Young Disciples, The Brand New Heavies and Jamiroquai, he made waves with breakout soul ballad There's Nothing Like This, and early albums such as 1992s Music. Having never compromised his musical and artistic integrity to court mainstream success his eclectic output has won him the admiring ears of many of the industry's biggest names. He's collaborated with Erykah Badu, Angie Stone, Paul Weller, Leon Ware, Lamont Dozier and of course one of his biggest idols Stevie Wonder. In this candid conversation he discusses being compared to the likes of Prince and Stevie, but also how he's maintained his career over the last 30 years. 'Essensual' listening...
In part 2 - we talk to Omar about the ownership of his work and masters, his many creative outlets, the resurgence of vinyl, being a vessel for music, spirituality and carrying the torch for a new generation.
2mins - Ownership of master tapes and adapting to the music industry as is now
5mins - Playing smaller venues, and keeping connected to communities... "where Prince was doing his after parties - that was where I was doing my gigs..."
7mins - Dabbling in acting, starring in BBC1s EastEnders and additional creative outlets
8mins30s - Writing for other people... Should've Known Better by Mica Paris
9mins - Collaborations with other artists - Leon Ware; Lamont Dozier; Syreeta Wright; Common; Erykah Badu; Kele Le Roc; Terri Walker; Angie Stone
9mins45s - Working with his brother Scratch Professor
11mins - Re-releasing earlier albums on vinyl?
13mins - Other things Omar wants to achieve, and live vs the studio
15mins30s - Favourite Stevie Wonder moments musically...Venue Fly Trap and The Bug
16mins30s - New album on limited vinyl - with monthly releases in 2025
18mins30s - Back in the US on tour for the first time in many years...but also seeing precious family members
20mins - Being a vessel for music...as a spiritual thing?
22mins - Testing songs out on the radio, Little Boy?
23mins - Re-recording an anthem...There's Nothing Like This...
26mins - Making parents proud and emerging talents on the scene...
28mins - Surviving the lockdown, earning money, and a new relationship with social media
29mins30s - Streaming live performances, and working on various projects
30mins30s - Passing the artistic baton on...