Hakim, Omar (USA)

The legendary Omar Hakim uses every hot new percussion tool available, from acoustic drums to Roland’s electronic V-Drums, which he connects via MIDI to his Power Mac, while performing and producing for some of the biggest names in pop and jazz fusion.

He is one of the few drummers who can claim to have played for David Bowie, Madonna, Sting, and Miles Davis.

"I had a natural affinity for rhythm very young," says Hakim. "I started drumming at age five when I received a toy drum for Christmas. They strapped it around my neck, and I immediately began playing a marching cadence."

By ten, he was playing in his father’s band and went on his first tour at fifteen. His father, Hasan Hakim, played trombone for Duke Ellington and Count Basie, giving Omar a strong jazz foundation. He later joined the legendary jazz fusion band Weather Report.

His career took off in 1980 after joining Carly Simon’s band. Word quickly spread, leading to numerous opportunities.

In the 80s, with the rise of drum machines like the LinnDrum, Hakim adapted rather than resisted. He mastered the technology and began offering both drumming and programming services, expanding his reach in electronic music.

Producer Nile Rodgers invited him to play on David Bowie’s "Let’s Dance" album. Around the same time, Miles Davis introduced him to Weather Report. His work impressed both Sting and Mark Knopfler, launching him into the upper echelons of jazz and pop music.

"I didn’t want to be known only as a rock or jazz drummer," Hakim says. "I wanted to be seen as a complete musician. Exposing myself to all styles allowed me to grow and stay open-minded."

For more information: www.omarhakim.com