Get to Know Omaha Musicians with Shomari Huggins
Artists Highlight: Music from Omaha
Interview by Dawaune Lamont Hayes | North Omaha
Since many of us are staying home, why not use this opportunity to get familiar with our local musicians making dope music in Omaha? We caught up with Shomari Huggins of Wakanda One who curated Quarantined in Omaha Pt. 1 featuring artists like J.Crum, Mesonjixx, Scky Rei, Marcey Yates and Edem Soul Music.
Music from a variety of local musicians and their verse are listed for “Quarantine in Omaha Pt.1”.
Marcey Yates (left) #14 Landing Gear & Dilla Kids (pictured) #29 Things to Do.
Check out the One Wakanda blog for more information.
Why did you make this playlist? Why is it important?
Shomari Huggins: I made this playlist for several reasons. I wanted to inspire creatives, remind them someone recognized their greatness, someone’s listening create a list of music that someone not from Omaha could listen to and grasp the variety of sounds. I wanted to curate my favorite artists from Omaha in one space that I could appreciate all of their artistry at the same time; to give people something to vibe to while spending extended amounts of time at home, perhaps dealing with issues that music could inspire them through.
It’s important that we build up our artists and don’t wait for them to say “well I did my tune, time to move on”. Artists don’t have to wait for fans. We can be fans of each other.
What is something that you learned or surprised you while you were making it?
Huggins: I know most of these artists personally so it was cool approaching their art from a listener’s perspective that may have never met them. As I was making it I kept thinking “what would I think about this collection of music if I were another guy from another place?”. I felt like I was collecting a time capsule. Years from now people will listen and say wow, that’s the sound of Omaha.
What do you hope for the community?
Huggins: At a time like this, I hope we can all magnify the great things, the hopeful things in our community. I hope we can all make it through this pandemic without losing any more loved ones. I hope we can make it to the other side of this stronger, more connected, and better equipped. I’m also hoping the youth are continuing their education in spite of the school closings. I hope this playlist sparks positivity and the notion that Omaha music is truly on the rise.
Check out the One Wakanda blog for more information.
Shomari Huggins is a native of Omaha, Nebraska. He attended Omaha Public Schools including graduating from Omaha North High School. He is a graduate of UNO with a degree in Communications. Shomari is the Co-Founder of the Wakanda Arts Production Group (WAPG) and a member of the Soul Fusion band Wakanda One. WAPG is involved in creating audio and visual media as well as curating arts and culture events. Shomari is the outreach coordinator for NOAH Free Clinic specializing in youth services.