(May 22, 2025) I grew up listening to Classic Soul music, so it always makes my ears perk up to hear modern-day songs with the old school sound/appeal. Some call it Retro Soul while others say it’s Soul Revival, but no matter what name it’s given, the sound is unmistakable.
A new song with that unmistakable Classic Soul sound is “On My Own” by Omar, who’s described as one of the greatest soul music talents the UK has produced in the last 40 years. Omar’s new single called opens with a horn section that, in my opinion, would make Tower of Power nod with approval. Overall, “On My Own” sounds like Soul gumbo, with Motown and Stax Records as the main ingredients. It’s like the Funk Brothers of Motown met up with Booker T & the MG’s from Stax for a jam session in the 1960’s and sent the finished product to us in the future.
“On My Own” features Omar’s long-time friend Paul Weller, a singer/songwriter/guitarist formerly with the British rock and pop bands The Jam and The Style Council. Weller was influenced by Motown and Stax music himself, and he infused a soulful edge into his bands. That soulful edge is front and center on this collaboration with Omar, who got his first session job touring with Weller and The Style Council as a percussionist in 1989. That said, Omar said their 2025 collaboration is a full circle moment that means a lot to him.
“On My Own” is from Omar’s forthcoming LP “Brighter The Days” (available June 6th), which marks his 40th anniversary as a recording artist. He’s also celebrating this milestone with a North American tour. Check out “On My Own” here.
By Darnea N. Samuels
