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

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