Omar
Silk
Listening to the voice of OMAR SILK, it is difficult to distinguish the
difference between himself and his older brother, the late legendary Garnett Silk. There
is clearly identifiable sound in their delivery, as Omar aims to be a true manifestation
of his mentor who he credits with determining the steps of his journey.
Born OMAR SCOTT on March 23, 1976 in the Hatfield District of Manchester, it was
obvious that the Almighty had specially blessed his family with more than their fair share
of musical talent.
With much admiration and respect for his older brother, Omar never left
Garnett's side, eager to learn all he could from his guru.
At the age of 9 years, Garnett called him on stage during a performance and it
created sheer pandemonium. The young Silk got such a rousing reception from the crowd that
he determined then and there the path his life would take.
So, with his inborn talent being nurtured by two gifted singers- his mother,
Etega Gray, and brother, mentor and teacher, Garnett Silk - Omar worked at his craft.
Garnett Silk's brief but powerful impact on the world as one of the greatest
singers and lyricists in the history of Reggae music had a potent effect on Omar,
inspiring the young Silk to great heights.
1995 witnessed Omar's first recording titled 'Babylon You Are No Good' for Roof
International Recording label, under the name Omar Silk given to him by his older brother.
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He followed that up with 'Pretty Smile', 'Cold Blooded
Murder', 'Justice', 'Zion In A Vision' (a cover of Garnett Silk's original), 'Trouble Nuh
Set Like Rain', 'Tale Bearer', 'Weird', 'Silent River', 'Never Have to Lie' and 'Rainbow',
on labels like Millennium Records from Canada, Flames Records, the Family owned Mama
Africa label, Fifth Element Records, among others. He has also released two combinations
with his equally talented brother, Lij Amlak, titled 'Love Alone' and 'Judges'. The
brothers, along with other family members, also recorded the track ' Witness' in 1995, in
the memory of the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of their mother, Etega, and
brother, Garnett, in December 1994. The Rastafarian singer has performed on a number of
local and overseas events, gracing the stage of the world class events Reggae Sumfest,
Rebel Salute and Teensplash on the local front, while taking his talent overseas to places
like New York, Miami, Philadelphia, Turks & Caicos, as well as a tour of Bermuda with
some of Jamaica's great veterans.
Earning the respect of the crowd with each performance, Omar's most memorable
appearance was in Bermuda where the massive crowd could not get enough of him. The fact
is, Garnett set a standard in Bermuda that anyone is yet to surpass, and being the brother
of the legend earned him the same respect.
Omar now forms part of the unrivalled Fifth Element family, joining gifted
stable mates Chuck Fenda, Anthony Crus, Richie Spice and Lij Amlak. He is working towards
releasing his debut album, 'Rainbow', before the end of the year.
The world had better watch out for this great singer, because he intends to make
his brother proud by caring his legacy.
Omar Silk Links: |
