From writing songs for Kesha Cole and Bruno Mars to performing on the same stages as Tyrese Gibson, Omar was signed to Island Def Jam Records and seemed destined for stardom in the music industry. But Allah had a different plan — and through a series of divine interventions that blocked every door to mainstream fame, Omar was guided away from an industry built on desires and toward the Quran, the ultimate source of peace for the human heart.
Inside the Music Industry Machine
Def Jam Records, founded by Russell Simmons and once led by Jay-Z, represents the pinnacle of music industry success. Omar spent years working with major artists including Musiq Soulchild, Neo, Raphael Saadiq, and Kesha Cole. He had fans in Australia and London, writing sessions with top performers, and every reason to believe the next big break was around the corner. But after 13 meetings to secure a new record deal, Allah kept every door closed.
“It’s really a mercy from Allah, because after I got off Def Jam, I went to 13 meetings to get on another record label — but Allah kept me from that. Right before really launching out there, Allah saved me from this.”
Why Music Corrupts the Heart and Soul
- R&B romanticizes sin — The love songs and lifestyle promoted by the music industry normalize fornication, materialism, and the pursuit of desires over the pleasure of Allah
- The industry exploits talent — Behind the glamour are broken contracts, manipulation, and a system designed to profit from people’s dreams while destroying their souls
- It disconnects from the Quran — The more one fills their heart with music and its culture, the less room there is for the words of Allah to take root
- Many artists need Islam — Even the biggest names in music are described as “good people who just need the guidance of Islam”
From Audio Pornography to the Quran
After six years completely away from playing instruments and the music industry, Omar now encourages Muslims to pick up the Quran instead of a guitar — even if it starts with just one verse a day. The culture of music today is not the natural sound of birds and flowing water; it is what he calls “audio pornography” that lures listeners toward fornication, drugs, and spiritual destruction through intoxicating beats and corrupt lyrics.
“In the remembrance of God do hearts find rest. Connect with the Quran — it’s been sent as a mercy to the world. The purpose of life, why you’ve been created, and where you’re going when you die are all mentioned in it.”
