MULTI-AWARD-WINNING gospel recording artiste, preacher, and motivational speaker Omari bares his soul on his forthcoming release titled
Firm and Strong.

Co-produced between Switzerland-based Phenodem and reggae band Raging Fyah, it is a precursor to Omari’s long-awaited sophomore album.

In an interview with the Jamaica Observer on Friday, Omari — based in Florida for the past 10 years — shared the inspiration behind the track.

“This song was inspired by my own situation and the different circumstances that I see people going through right now. I just wanted to encourage not just myself but others to be strong regardless of what you’re facing, because God promised that he will never leave or forsake us,” said Omari, who also noted that Firm and Strong is relatable to people experiencing difficult situations. “[E]every person goes through difficult times in life and needs to hear a voice of encouragement to let them know that you are stronger than the circumstances we face… The message is, I want to encourage people to keep themselves and their leaders accountable, and to encourage young people to stay focused on God’s hard work.”

Omari’s début album Heal Jamaica, Heal the World, which featured the hit songs Help, Jehovah Guide Me and Why, was released 14 years ago.

Help, the song that introduced Omari in a major way to the gospel world, is still his biggest hit to date. He says he has evolved musically since the song topped charts on it release, 18 years ago.

“Yes, I have evolved. I am not just a singer, I am also a preacher of the gospel. I’ve been very active in church in different capacities, and I have been doing motivational speaking,” said Omari who worships at Our Father’s Kingdom Ministries in Lauderhill, Florida, and which is led in worship by gospel deejay and pastor, Papa San.

— Kevin Jackson