Omari Shakir is not new to this. The OPB (Outta Pocket Boyz) crew member and years ahead of their time Black Boot Gang representer was one of the original members of the XO crew. Omari remains one of the most consistent artists in Hip-Hop releasing music at a steady pace, keeping his fans very much locked into his one of a kind aesthetic that includes a unique flow and singing style. At the heart of his message is a brutal honesty and a capable verbiage to express it: a potent mix. His “I Can’t Make My Mind Up” record featuring crew mate and Atlanta mainstay, Key! is nearing half a million plays on Soundcloud and is still in steady rotation.

We got to ask him a few questions about his latest offering.

RESPECT.: What was the process that went behind this project?
The process behind this project was to contrast ‘The Necessary Evil’….. Delivering bars that incite the new-found resurgence of lyricism while still current and exciting. 80% freestyle. The real freestyles not the phone freestyles.

RESPECT.: How would you compare Toronto to Atlanta’s hip hop scene?
The two scenes are incomparable and similar all in one sentence. Both scenes are overwhelmed with unforeseen politics. However, the support system in Atlanta is extremely stronger than the one in Toronto. Many tastemakers in this city get overlooked, and stealers of their styles get chosen because of their complacency. However, Toronto has the chance to shatter the glass ceiling that has been placed over the city’s talent.

RESPECT.:  What advantages you feel you have because of being from Atlanta and Toronto?
I understand and showcase the emotions and darkness of Torontonians, while embodying the southern swagger that the world seeks to emulate so badly.

RESPECT.: What influences your music? What influenced this project in particular?
My musical influences from humans are David Ruffin, Erykah Badu, Missy Elliott, Larry Levan. Real Time events is what affects and influences my music. This project was specifically influenced by showing Toronto and the world that my talent is a service, and i’m not going anywhere.

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