Adil Omar – Recording artist/ rapper/ record producer and singer-songwriter
He is, who introduced a new music genre to the people of Pakistan. He’s performed with international music artists and what’s not to love about his music? He’s his very own producer and is looking to take the Pakistani music industry to a new height! Keep reading as Social Diary finds out more about the very talented rapper/producer in this exclusive interview.
- Who is Adil Omar Tell us about yourself (your background, education, lifestyle etc.)
If you want to know, listen to the music.
- How did you get started as a musician?
I decided at 8, started at 9.
- How would you describe your music style?
Absolute insanity.
- Who are the music inspirations for you, both national and international?
Biggest influences: Dr. Dre, Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails, Wu-Tang Clan.
- You have been a part of the music industry for a while now; however we have seen a surge in your popularity and music recently. To what do you owe your breakthrough?
Consistency and good work.
- Had music always been something you wanted to pursue professionally as in was there a game plan or at that time things just went with the flow?
I’ve only wanted to do music since I was 8.
- How experimental are you with your music? Is there a tried and true formula that you find fits your music style best?
There are no formulas. If it’s SNKM, it’s more pop. If it’s solo, it’s my stream of consciousness and what I’m feeling at the time.
- What was the inspiration behind your album songs like The Observer, Revelations, The Void and Champions?
The Observer is about perceptions and software upgrades in this simulation. Revelations is about higher communication, DNA upgrades and divine protection. The Void is self explanatory. Champions is about surviving, thriving and basking in victory.
- What is your take on the current state of the music industry in Pakistan?
It’s cool. Lots of talented artists trying new things. It’s an exciting time.
- Do you think more concerts will boost the music scene in Pakistan?
Absolutely. Any fan participation in fostering the culture will help.
- You’ve performed with bands and singers who are popular around the world. How was the experience? Who would you want to work with in the near future?
I’m always grateful for such experiences. We did a bunch of Mad Decent Block Parties with Diplo and others throughout 2016 and 2017 before bringing it to Pakistan. This was fun. We played at the Troubador with Skrillex and Elliphant in 2017 as well. When we did Mad Decent in Islamabad, we put on our friends and artists that we like locally like Lyari Underground, Shamoon Ismail, Osama Com Laude, etc. We’re always looking to build.
- You are your own producer and singer. Would you be willing to collaborate with some other producers and singers in the near future?
I’m working with a few of my favorite artists on my next album Mastery. As SNKM we’re also producing and writing for a host of pop artists globally. I’m looking forward to working and co-producing with some of my favorite producers as well. I enjoy working with artists who are down to try something new, create things that haven’t been created before.
- This type of hip-hop has been missing from the music industry of Pakistan since a long time. Considering that, how has promoting transcendence been a challenge for you?
The kind of hip-hop and music I do, even in a global context, doesn’t exist anywhere. Being in Pakistan, even in a global context, has had its challenges but also it’s benefits. I’m not worried about promoting anymore. Everything that’s happening is happening at the right time and my focus is the creation of the work itself. If other’s are late to this party, the joke’s on them, not me.
- . A song of yours ends at:
From love we arrive
And to love we return
Welcome back
Does this mean that deep down, Adil Omar is indeed hooked to someone or at least interested in love after all the buoyancy melts down?
It sounds like you have a very basic and one dimensional understanding of love
- Would you say promoting music through concerts and music albums is still effective in Pakistani context?
It’s effective in every context. Most opt out of albums for singles, which is fine. But the album will never die.
- Do you foresee yourself going commercial in the near future? Composing for television shows, films or other similar collaborations?
On my terms, yes.
- So what’s next for you?
My next album: Mastery.
- How have you been dealing with your increasing popularity?
Keeping to myself and my inner circle, focusing on the work and not getting distracted.
Quick Bits:
- Who was the last person you got a text from?
Talal
- Last book you read?
Book of Five Rings
- Favorite movie/s?
The Wrestler, Kick-Ass
- Your all time celebrity crush?
Monica Bellucci
- You favorite TV series of all time?
The Sopranos
- Your biggest fear?
I’m over that shit
- You spend most of your money on?
Investing wisely and multiplying
- Favorite perfume?
My natural scent
- Early bird or Nocturnal?
Depends on the day
- Your favorite city in Pakistan?
Islamabad
- Ideal breakfast menu?
Ostrich
