Where do you get the inspiration for your music?
Answer: Life
itself is my greatest inspiration- with all its layers, emotions, and
revelations. Often, a moment of clarity or a spiritual realization forms a
phrase in my mind. That phrase naturally gives rise to rhythm, and from that
rhythm, a melody emerges. It’s a very organic and heartfelt process. Music,
for me, is a shared emotional journey. When the musicians and the audience
connect, when the energy in the room becomes one-that’s when the real magic
happens.I want people to leave feeling
uplifted, united, and reminded of our shared humanity. Music has the power to
heal and to bring us back to ourselves and to one another
How has the Western sound influenced your work?
Answer: I owe much of that influence to my longtime producer, Brian Keane-a brilliant composer, guitarist, and sound engineer. He produced my first seven albums. With deep respect for my cultural roots and his mastery of Western musicality, we were able to blend traditional and modern sounds into something energetic, emotional, and unique. It was a beautiful and seamless collaboration that continues to this day.
Have you spent much time in Greece? What is your relationship with the Greek audience?
Answer: Yes, I’ve
been coming to Greece since 1995, and from the very beginning, I felt an
instant connection. It was clear to me how much we share culturally and
emotionally. Over nearly 30 years, I’ve performed across the country, and I’m
deeply grateful to the Greek people for embracing my music with such love and
sincerity. It feels like coming home every time. I’m always touched by the love and warmth of Greek audiences. Music
remains one of the last true frontiers where we meet as human beings-soul to
soul.
How would you describe your music in one sentence?
Answer: My music is Mediterranean at heart, rooted in Anatolian tradition, enriched by many influences across East and West.
A listener once said your music moved him so deeply, his heart cried while listening. What does that mean to you?
Answer: To me, creating music is a form of prayer-a sacred act. It connects me to my deepest self and, through that, to the universe. When that connection is real, it carries emotion that goes beyond sound. So when someone says their heart cries, I understand it deeply. It means the music reached them on a soul level, which is the greatest gift I could hope for as an artist.
Music is a universal language. Do you feel you've achieved the goal you set for yourself ?
Answer: Yes, I believe I have. After 65 years in music and 14 solo albums, I’ve had the blessing of touching hearts across the world. Communicating through music—without borders, without words—was always my goal. And I’m still committed to continuing this path.
Your most recent album, Love is My Religion (2017), features many renowned musicians. Can you tell us more?
Answer: I’m truly
fortunate to work with an incredible manager who has brought together a wide
range of amazing musicians from around the world. Thanks to him, many talented
artists contributed to Love is My Religion, and I’m proud of the spirit
of unity that album represents. It’s a celebration of love, diversity, and
collaboration.
Will the magic of the Orient meet the soul of Greece for one night in the Fortress of Kavala ?
Answer: Absolutely!
I can’t wait to perform in Kavala, I never been ! . It will be a special night
filled with emotion, connection, and musical magic. The Fortress theatre seems
fantastic and I am really happy for
giving me the opportunity to play in such beautiful place --sharing that with
my Greek friends in such a beautiful setting is truly something I cherish.
What can we expect from your upcoming concert?
Answer: We’ll
be performing a diverse selection from my repertoire—old favorites and newer
material. But what makes this concert extra special is our tribute to the
legendary Mikis Theodorakis. In honor of his 100th birthday, we’ll perform four
of his compositions to celebrate his profound legacy and keep his spirit alive
through music.
I had the great honor of visited him at his home and spending small time with him—just the two of us. I played one of
his songs on my ney.
He smiled and said, “Bravo,
Omar!” That moment, and the blessing he gave me to perform his
music, will stay with me forever.
Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you up close.
Answer: Thank you as well for the thoughtful conversation and for
sharing it with your readers. I look forward to meeting everyone in Kavala!
Stathis Harpas
( Harpasblog , “Athens Voice” )
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