ATHENS VOICE, 08.07.2025 – Read original post
Written by Stathis Harpantidis | Translated into English from Greek
We talk to the favorite musician of the Greek public on the occasion of his concerts in Thessaloniki and Kavala
Omar Farouk Tekbilek is one of the greatest ambassadors of oriental music and as a charismatic instrumentalist he has been a favorite musician for the Greek public for years. His music is deeply rooted in tradition, his inspiration comes from mysticism, tradition, poetry, romanticism and the imagination of the East and the Arabs, while he has been influenced by contemporary musical idioms and currents at times. Living in the West (mainly in New York) without forgetting his origins, he firmly rests on the musical traditions of the East, brings together and unites two seemingly distant cultures and worlds.
I have attended many performances of the artist, here and abroad. In each of his performances I can see an unparalleled lyrical and spiritual power. With his eyes shining with kindness and inspiration, he puts his soul into every concert and humbly receives the warm applause of the people. It responds with emotion and persistence to the charismatic mixture of West and East. A few days before his appearances in our country, we had a very human conversation with the important artist Omar Farouk Tekbilek, whom we thank for the precious time he gave us.
Where do you get inspiration for your music?
Life itself is my greatest inspiration—in all its levels, emotions, and revelations. Often, a moment of clarity or a spiritual awareness forms a phrase in my mind. This phrase naturally creates rhythm, and from this rhythm, a melody emerges. It’s a very internal process, coming out of the deepest, innermost parts of the heart. Music, for me, is an emotional journey, which you share. When the musicians and the audience connect, when the energy in the space becomes common, then the real magic emerges. I want people to leave feeling renewed, united and with the thought that they have shared something human. Music has the power to heal and bring us back to our deepest selves, to rediscover each other.
How has Western sound influenced your work?
I owe much of this influence to my longtime producer, Brian Keane – a brilliant composer, guitarist and sound engineer. He produced my first seven albums. With deep respect for my cultural roots, we have managed to combine traditional and modern sounds into something energetic, emotional and unique. It was a beautiful and impeccable collaboration that continues to this day.
Have you spent a lot of time in Greece? What is your relationship with the Greek public?
Yes, I’ve been coming to Greece since 1995 and from the beginning I felt a direct connection. I immediately understood that we share so much, culturally and emotionally. For almost 30 years, I have performed all over the country and I am deeply grateful to the Greek people who embrace my music, with so much love and sincerity. I feel like I’m coming home every time. I am always moved by the love and warmth of the Greek audience. Music remains one of the last frontiers of truth, where we human beings meet, soul to soul.
How would you describe your music in one sentence?
My music is Mediterranean at heart, rooted in the oriental tradition, enriched by many influences in East and West.
A listener once said that your music moved him so deeply that his heart wept while listening to it. What does this mean for you?
For me, creating music is a form of prayer – a sacred act. It connects me to my deepest self and, through it, to the universe. When this connection is real, it conveys emotion that goes beyond sound. So when someone says that their heart is crying, I understand it deeply. It means that music touched him in the depths of his soul and this is the greatest gift that I could extract as an artist from my audience.
Music is a universal language. Do you feel that you have achieved the goal you set for yourself?
Yes, I think I have. After 65 years in music and 14 solo albums, I’ve been blessed to touch hearts around the world. Communication through music – without borders, without words – has always been my goal. And I remain committed to this path all these years later.
Your most recent album, “Love is My Religion” (2017), features many acclaimed musicians. Can you tell us more?
I’m really lucky to be working with an incredible manager who has gathered a wide range of amazing musicians from all over the world. Thanks to him, many talented artists contributed to “Love is My Religion” and I am proud of the spirit of unity and collaboration that the album represents. It is a celebration, a declaration of love, diversity and cooperation.
Will the magic of the East meet the soul of Greece in your concerts in our country?
Absolutely! I can’t wait to perform in Greece, it will be two special nights full of emotion, connection and musical magic.
What can we expect from your promising concerts?
We will present a varied selection from my repertoire – old favorites and newer material. But what makes this concert special is the tribute to the legendary Mikis Theodorakis. In honor of his 100th birthday, we will perform four of his compositions to celebrate his deep legacy and keep his spirit alive through music. I had the great honor of visiting him at his home and spending some time with him – just the two of us. I played one of his songs on my ney. He smiled and said: “Well done, Omar!” This moment, but also the blessing and the wish he gave me to interpret his music, will accompany me forever.
Thank you for your time. We look forward to seeing you up close. Thank you very much for what we have reflected on this debate. *The concerts of Omar Farouk Tekbilek will take place at the Lazaristes Monastery in Thessaloniki on July 10 and at the Fortress of Kavala on July 12.