There's nothing like talking to Omar about Prince and his idol Stevie Wonder. In part 1 we discuss being hailed as a musical prodigy, influences, collaborators and the creative process. Not to be missed.

How can U just leave me standing? ...in search of Prince Rogers Nelson.

INTRO

2mins - Learning his craft as a child, and a musical education, culminating at The Guildhall School of Music.

3mins - Always being comfortable with music as a craft...and having to choose over football.

4mins - First Omar composition...at 14?

5mins30s - Scholarship vs a record deal...

6mins - Music theory vs feel...

7mins - Things Omar's Dad taught him about music.

8mins30s - The Talkin' Loud Acid Jazz scene in London in the early 90s

10mins - Having longevity

11mins30s - Maintaining a unique sound...and a new album - Omar's 9th

14mins - Not feeling burdened by the musical prodigy tag

15mins - Influences, Ohio Players, family and the music that shaped Omar.

15mins30s - learning Level 42 bass lines as a teenager

16mins - Collaborating with legends in the music business...

18mins - Hanging out with Stevie Wonder in London

20mins - Favourite Prince tracks

22mins - Best By Far?

23mins - Orchestral sounds, Philly Soul and peer respect

27mins - not courting the mainstream

How Can U Just Leave Me Standing? In Search of Prince... is produced and arranged by Sam J. Bleazard - but couldn't exist without the fabulous contribution from all of our guests!

The show also features significant original music compositions from Gavin Calder.

LINKS

Please follow me on Instagram and Facebook if you'd like to interact with the show on social media.

Email me at: [email protected] if you have any ideas for future episodes, or if you'd like to share any feedback on the show.

#prince4ever #love4oneanother