Renowned recording artist and songwriter Omari Banks is thrilled to announce the release of his highly anticipated new single, « Africa Identity. » This powerful track is set to release July 19th via ONErpm, marking Omari’s triumphant return to the music scene after a two-year hiatus since his last release, « Educate Us, » in 2022.
Inspired by the 50th anniversary of carnival celebrations in Anguilla, « Africa Identity » is a vibrant fusion of soca and Afro beat that pays homage to the island’s rich cultural heritage and its deep-rooted connections to African ancestry. Omari Banks, who produced and wrote the song, drew from his childhood memories and the music that shaped his upbringing in Anguilla.
« The song was inspired by the 50th year of carnival celebrations in Anguilla, which is a celebration of the emancipation from slavery and how our African identity should be at the forefront of our celebrations, » Omari explains. « I was inspired by the memories as a child growing up in Anguilla, the music I heard, and how it made me feel, and also how it ties into our African ancestry. »
Collaborating closely with Dennis Warrington, Omari crafted a beat that seamlessly blends soca and Afro beat elements, while his signature guitar playing adds a unique touch to the track. The legendary Jamaican saxophonist Dean Fraser also lends his talents to the song, adding a dynamic and soulful dimension to the horns.
Recorded between the studios of Dennis Warrington and Justin Richardson in Anguilla, « Africa Identity » is a celebration of identity and cultural pride. « The song is about celebrating our identity, which is Anguillian but rooted firmly in African culture, and this we should never forget, » Omari emphasizes.
With lyrics that resonate deeply, the opening line of the song sets the tone: « Once a year I does jump around and play mass in the street / Yep it’s that time of year, slave master set we free. »
Omari Banks has always been passionate about spreading messages of love and consciousness through his music. « The message I want to convey is we must be proud of who we are and never forget the lessons of the past as they shape our future, » he says.
As fans eagerly await the release of « Africa Identity, » Omari also hints at the exciting news of a full album set to be released in 2025. « Music and life continuously change as we grow, and that I believe is natural. But as a musician, I’m constantly inspired by what I’m hearing in the present, so expect more of me and my guitar and a bit more uptempo tunes at times, » he shares.
While there are no immediate plans for a music video, fans can look forward to a lyric video, and Omari will be performing « Africa Identity » on his upcoming summer and fall tours in the US and UK.