The violin is not an instrument that comes to mind when discussing Soul music, but musician Omari Dillard will make you reconsider.
Born in Carbondale, Illinois, and raised in the Tampa Bay area, Dillard started his musical journey when he began playing the piano at eight years old. At age 11, he decided he wanted to play the violin instead and then dove into learning the string instrument. Now a classically trained professional artist, he employs a contemporary style that showcases versatility in genres like R&B, jazz, hip hop, rock, pop, country, and gospel that has wooed audiences nationwide.
In his off-time, Omari loves to give back to the community by visiting schools and inspiring kids of all ages to pursue music. Music became his passion in life, and he wants the next generation of musicians to follow their passions.
N’DIGO sat down with the man known as “The Soul Violinist” fresh off his recent show at Bronzeville’s Harold Washington Cultural Center to learn more.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Omari Dillard?
Omari Dillard: I’m a father, fiancé, and Soul Violinist! My father wasn’t present growing up, and I know how it impacted my life on so many levels, so it’s not only my responsibility to be there for my daughters but to be involved as well. “Dad” is one of my most coveted titles. I look forward to being an amazing husband, so I recently proposed to my long-time girlfriend on Christmas. I’d say we’ve had a lot of practice. The world knows me as a Soul Violinist. I’ve taken the old-school R&B music I grew up listening to and combined it with the classical music I learned in grade school to make my instrument a voice that resonates in the souls of those who listen. It’s an extension of my heart, my joy, pain, struggles, and triumph.
Did you always know you wanted to do music professionally, or did you consider anything else as a career while growing up?
Even though I was involved with music as a child, I wasn’t influenced enough by it to choose it as a career. I remember wanting to be a garbage man. When I was in elementary school, the garbage man would pull up in his oversized garbage truck to dump the trash. The truck had flashing lights and mechanical arms that hoisted the dumpster into its bed. All the kids would race to the fence to see it in action! The garbage man was cool. He wore dark shades to cover his eyes, and always honked the horn when we gave him the “signal”. Now that I think about it, he was one of the first Black men that was “consistent” in my life.
How did you discover the violin?
I discovered the violin during an assembly called the Great American Teach-In. I believe I was in the 5th grade at the time. A woman by the name of Jean Hart hosted the assembly. After playing a few tunes, she asked the student body if we wanted to learn how to play violin. It was a hard pass for me until she hit us with an offer we couldn’t refuse: if we joined her string ensemble, we could get out of math class early. Sign me up!
Though almost all music is Black, if you trace it back, did you encounter resistance or people who did not understand your love for the violin?
I think the resistance involves the idea of the violin being perceived as “boring,” but not really. I will say that, as a professional musician, breaking into the Smooth Jazz genre has been challenging. I think it’s because the violin is overshadowed by other instruments, such as the sax, piano, and guitar. But once decision-makers hear me play live, they’re captivated.
Please tell us about your album, Sincerely Omari, which was released a few months ago.
“Sincerely Omari” is special. It’s my second album, compiled of some of my favorite songs. I perform at weddings often. I initially created the album to help with the increasing demand of my fans who wanted my music on streaming platforms. Although the songs are contemporary, they have a classical feel due to the arrangements. All of the songs are accompanied by piano. I believe there’s no sweeter combination in music: violin and piano. In fact, there’s a segment during my concert where the band takes a short break, and I perform a couple of songs with my keyboardist. From the feedback I’ve received, it’s some people’s favorite part of the show.
“Sincerely Omari” is more than a wedding album. Whether you’re in love or seeking it, you’ll certainly feel love’s essence while listening to it. It’s streaming on all platforms, and a physical copy is available at my website: www.omaridillard.com.
Can you give your opinion on the importance of keeping music and arts in schools?
There are so many benefits to teaching music and arts to our youth. And honestly, my opinion of why has changed as I continue to advocate for them. We all know that when children attend music classes, they establish team-building skills and strengthen social skills. They are literally learning how to communicate without uttering a word. That’s how powerful playing an instrument is. Studies have shown that students with classical music backgrounds have improved math and reading scores as opposed to students without.
In my opinion, representation is of the utmost importance. When I was in grade school, I could name a plethora of Black football, baseball, and basketball players. And even though I was taught that I could be anything in this world, statistics prove that my chances of becoming a professional athlete were slim. Conversely, I couldn’t name one Black violinist. I want the youth to know that when they see me on stage, I’m on that stage representing them. Stringz Attached is creating a pathway for our youth to flourish.
As an independent artist, how do you feel about where the music biz is today in terms of how technology has changed it and the absolute need for major label support not being what it was in the past?
Back then, the goal was to be “signed“. Today, the majority of artists signed to a major record label gained the attention of the label because of their large social media following. The result is sometimes a mediocre talent that’s unsustainable. You know, here today and gone tomorrow. All businesses share a common goal, which is to make money. I believe the quality of the products we’ve been offered lately doesn’t compare to those we’re accustomed to. What I mean is labels are selling popularity. A skill is taught by man. But a gift is given by God. More importantly, that gift is to be shared with others. Therefore, no matter what happens in life, your gift will make room for you.
What’s one album that is an absolute must for you that you can’t do without?
“Never Too Much“ – Luther Vandross
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
On Feb. 1st, 2017, the FBI indicted me for conspiracy. I ended up spending 11 months in a federal prison camp. I didn’t know it at the time, but it was one of the biggest blessings. The relationships that were meant to be strengthened in my life were strengthened during that time. And the relationships that were supposed to expire long ago were fleeting as well.
What is your best advice or word of wisdom for aspiring musicians?
Surround yourself with people who believe in you and encourage and uplift you. Look at criticism as an opportunity to be your best self.
Favorite quote or affirmation?
I am a great father. I am a great husband. I am a multi-homeowner. I am a great musician. I am a child of God.
I say these affirmations every morning. I speak them into existence because they make me a well-rounded man.
What’s next for Omari Dillard?
I’m living my dream. Now, my job is to bring as many people with me as possible. I sold out 9 out of 10 cities on tour last year, and I hope to triple the number of cities I hit this year. I’m working on a new original project that I hope becomes a household staple to the new generation like Kenny G was to mine. A goal of mine is to be invited to perform at more internationally known jazz festivals because I want to impact and inspire more people at once. Regarding projects, I’d like to work with some of my favorite artists like Tank, Leela James, Major, Boney James, and Damien Escobar.
For more information on Omari, please visit www.omaridillard.com.
