British soul legend Omar Lyefook, MBE, reflects on his 40-year career, discussing his influence on neo-soul, industry battles with major labels, and collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and Erykah Badu. Despite critical acclaim, he addresses being underrated. The article highlights his new 18-track 'magnum opus' album, 'Brighter the Days,' born of lockdown frustration, and his recent acting role on EastEnders.
‘I’m closer to the end than the beginning’: British soul legend Omar on EastEnders, Stevie Wonder and his industry battles
CultureSoulDance musicPop and rockR&BStevie Wonder
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️British soul legend Omar Lyefook, MBE, reflects on his 40-year career, discussing his influence on neo-soul, industry battles with major labels, and collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and Erykah Badu. Despite critical acclaim, he addresses being underrated. The article highlights his new 18-track 'magnum opus' album, 'Brighter the Days,' born of lockdown frustration, and his recent acting role on EastEnders.
- 1 Mid-80s: Omar started making music.
- 2 1989: First professional gig playing percussion with Paul Weller in Japan.
- 3 1990: Breakout moment with 'There's Nothing Like This'.
- 4 1991: 'There's Nothing Like This' rereleased on Talkin' Loud, went Top 20.
- 5 1992: First attempt to work with Stevie Wonder in LA.
- 6 1997: Released track 'Say Nothin'' with Ol' Dirty Bastard.
- 7 Around 2000: Met J Dilla in Detroit.
- 8 Early 2000s: Second attempt to work with Stevie Wonder in London.
- 9 2004: 'It's So' became a popular track in DJ sets.
- 10 2006: Released 'Feeling You' with Stevie Wonder.
- 11 2017: Released his last LP before 'Brighter the Days'.
- 12 2022: Had a two-week stint on EastEnders playing Avery Baker.
- 13 2024: Underwent brachytherapy for early-stage prostate cancer.
- 14 Recent: Released his ninth studio album, 'Brighter the Days'.
- Omar's music influencing the neo-soul genre
- His industry battles affecting his mainstream profile
- His music being passed down through generations
What: British soul legend Omar Lyefook discusses his 40-year career, industry challenges, and his new album 'Brighter the Days'.
When: 40 years into his career; new album 'Brighter the Days' released recently (first LP since 2017); first professional gig in 1989; breakout in 1990; EastEnders stint in 2022; brachytherapy in 2024.
Where: UK (London, Kent, Manchester, Brighton), Japan, LA, Detroit, Brussels.
Why: To provide insight into his musical journey, the struggles of an artist in the music industry, his creative process, and his personal philosophy.
How: Through an interview where he shares anecdotes, discusses his music, and reflects on his experiences and observations.