Sing (If You Want It) begins with a short vocal interlude appropriately titled “Lift off,” and moves on to the inspirational, “Sing (If You Want It).” Omar sings with conviction over snare drums and the smooth backing vocals of Davina Wright, “when things get on top of you, it’s time to get away, yeah/ Put down the work put down the books, yes its ok/ Paint a picture in your mind maybe you will find some solitude./ I know I can find it and baby it’s with you.”
Angie Stone, a longtime admirer of Omar’s provides vocals on the cool, romantic ballad “All For Me,” where Omar is able to show his significant abilities as a romantic balladeer.
The rast/rap/soul infused “Gimme Sum” featuring Common, Rodney P, Ashman and Canitbe is a stand out track that should have the clubs moving. The combination of musical styles creates an infectious beat that will be emanating out of many a speaker.
Stevie Wonder had been a fan of Omar’s since hearing his 1992 song, “There’s Nothing Like This,” back in 1992. Wonder promised Omar he would eventually write him a song. After fourteen years, Wonder wrote, played keyboards, and sang backing vocals on “Feeling You.” The track is a soul, funk infused track with the keyboard and guitar layering that remind me of a Stevie Wonder track during the 1970’s.
Given the number of great artists that appear on Sing (If You Want It), it is obvious that Omar is a well respected artist in the music community. After listening to his strong voice and his ability to mix musical styles, it is easy to see why. Omar is a talented artist who understands how to get the most out of every musical note.
