I’m sure I encountered Omar long ago, as 2025 marks his 40th year in the music game, but sifting through the overstuffed memory bank called my brain is such that it’s likely best to just say the UK-based R&B singer’s collaboration with Stone Foundation on “Summer Song” (from their recent Revival of Survival album) reminded me of his soulful spirit.
On My Own & There’s Much Love in the World, at least within the Apple Music ecosystem, is a five-song EP that’s slated to drop this Friday. It collects his recent singles, including “There’s Much Love in the World,” “Can We Go Out?,” “Research” (featuring Honey LaRochelle) and “Brighter the Days,” while adding a new virtual 45 to the spindle, “On My Own,” which flashes back to the days of the Drifters with help from old pal Paul Weller.
It’s all in preparation—aka building anticipation—for Omar’s forthcoming long player, Brighter the Days, which is due out in early June (and can be pre-ordered here.) The album, much like this EP, incorporates old-school flourishes while maintaining a decidedly modern vibe. (It’s the best of both worlds, in that sense.) In addition to Weller and LaRochelle, it features guest turns from rappers Giggs and Jeru the Damaja, plus iconic singers India Arie, Ledisi, Eric Roberson and Raheem DeVaughn.
The Old Grey Cat 
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