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Celebrating 10 years of success is no small feat, and for this artiste, it’s a big deal, which he describes as “...the best feeling”. When the Felix Jaehn’s remix of Omi’s track Cheerleader was released in 2014, it quickly became a global sensation, earning five-time platinum status and ultimately leading to his worldwide recognition.
Now, a decade later, Omi is celebrating this milestone on the road with his Cheerleader Anniversary Tour, which kicks off in Japan.
Omi explained that his fans, known as the ‘Omi Army’, can expect his usual positive energy along with new music during the tour. As for the setup, he shared that,“So far we have four shows for Japan in Osaka and Tokyo; then we break for December and kick off 2025 in the UK at the Leestock Festival.”
Hailing from the parish of Clarendon, Omi, whose given name is Omar Pasley, shared that his focus has never been solely on the song’s success. For him, it has always been about creating music he genuinely loves. To see it received by the world in such a significant way is something he is truly grateful for.
In addition to the tour, the Hula Hoop singer is currently promoting his new single and music video, Poker Face, and plans to release his second album in 2025.
5 Questions With... had the opportunity to speak with Omi before he landed in Japan.
1. Looking back 10 years, before the remix of ‘Cheerleader’, did you ever imagine it would become such a hit?
I did not foresee this happening, honestly. I didn’t imagine Cheerleader becoming this huge hit that ultimately made me a household name with worldwide recognition. I once heard someone say if your dream doesn’t scare you then it’s not big enough. So looking back and putting it in perspective, all I wanted to do was write and make music, that was my goal.
2. How does it feel to celebrate this milestone now?
It’s one of the best feelings for me as an artiste. It’s humbling and motivating. The success of Cheerleader motivates me to stay creative and just make catchy, feel-good music for my fans.
3. How have you grown musically and personally over the years?
I am a curious learner. I like to consider myself a work in progress and constantly checking myself to not make room for ego. I am understanding the music business more and more, like the importance of social media marketing and engaging with the fans. It’s a big change for me, especially for the fact that I am such an introvert.
4. Now that you’re in Japan for your Cheerleader Anniversary Tour, are there any special surprises for your fans?
Well, yes. But let’s keep it a surprise (laughs). We have been in hours of rehearsal to make this a special one. For the past three months my team has been running a Cheerleader competition for dancers to compete to join me on stage whenever I perform in their city. With that said, I will have Japanese dancers join me on stage. I’m really excited about that.
5. How has the feedback been for your new single and music video, ‘Poker Face’, and will it be part of your tour setlist?
The response has been super positive thus far. We dropped a visualiser on YouTube to bring some vibes around the song and we are looking to do a music video to build more onto the upbeat effect of the song. There are some catchy dance moves for the song already. Shout out to Christina A. González (Instagram: @ChrisChoreo) and Sashi Empire (Instagram: @Sashi_db_Empire), the dance routine tun up!
BRAWTA
What is a hobby that people would be surprised to learn about you?
A lot of people would be surprised to know that I dabble into architecture and interior design. I am also a visual artist. When I am not in the recording studio , I am in my design studio working on building designs. I have worked on a few projects especially during the pandemic. I am at peace when I am in a creative space. Being creative is my hobby!
English (US) ·