Sparks Fly: OMI Sets Off “Fireworks”

Words by Tasha Brown—

After Omar “OMI” Pasley released his smooth, do-right, do-good single “Cheerleader” last year, we warned you to be on the lookout for the Jamaican crooner in the coming months. We even put him at No. 2 on our Top 10 artists to watch this year.

Recently, he’s dropped a new video for his single, “Fireworks.” The song has a pop feel to it, while also reaching back to Jamaica’s history with some mento and ska vibes as well. Despite being fresh on the scene, OMI is already showing his pull with reggae musicians: Sly Dunbar, Lamont “Monty” Savory and Jamaican guitar legend, Ernest Ranglin, all play on the track. He even managed to get Ernest to appear in the actual video. That alone speaks volumes.

Taking a different tack than in his previous videos for “Cheerleader” and “Standing on All Threes,” the swooner showcases his comical side in “Fireworks,” taking his sensual lyrics to a fun, playful visual. In particular, he showcases his acting skills, putting on some makeup and a fake beard to play the randy old man next door forced to hear the “fireworks” OMI’s girl is producing in bed.

It’s more than a spark. Our Mr. Nice Guy, OMI, is definitely making a name for himself and faring pretty well.