Omari Neville
Omari Neville, also known as ONeville, is carrying the torch of one of New Orleans' most iconic musical dynasties into the future. As the youngest son of Cyril Neville, renowned percussionist and vocalist of The Meters and The Neville Brothers, Omari has music flowing through his veins.
Born on February 14, 1988, in New Orleans, Omari grew up immersed in the rich musical heritage of the Crescent City. From an early age, he was exposed to the funk, soul, and R&B sounds that made his family famous, but Omari has developed his own unique musical identity that spans multiple genres.
As a multi-talented artist, Omari is known for his impeccable drumming skills, following in his father's percussive footsteps. However, his talents extend far beyond rhythm. Omari's musical repertoire encompasses funk, rock, hip-hop, and various other styles, showcasing his versatility and innovative approach to music.
Omari currently fronts his own band, Omari Neville & The Fuel, which brings "another level of Neville" to the stage. The band's performances are characterized by hard-driving, funk-fueled energy that celebrates the next generation of New Orleans' First Family of Funk. Their sound is a fresh take on the Neville legacy, infused with elements of reggae, punk, soul, and R&B.
The Fuel's lineup includes some impressive talent. Alongside Omari on drums, the band features Daryl Johnson, the original Neville Brothers' bassist, as well as Gregg Moliaro on guitar and Austin Clements on keyboard. Both Moliaro and Clements have been playing with Omari since their early teens, creating a tight-knit musical unit.
One of the most special aspects of Omari's musical odyssey is the opportunity to perform with his father, Cyril Neville. Cyril occasionally makes appearances with The Fuel, bringing together multiple generations of Neville talent on one stage. As Cyril puts it, "being on stage with my son and his band is like being on stage with all three of those entities [The Meters, Wild Tchoupitoulas, and Neville Brothers] at the same time, all rolled into one.
Omari Neville represents the future of the Neville musical legacy. His innovative approach to music, combined with his deep roots in New Orleans funk and R&B, positions him as a key figure in carrying the historic Neville family name into the future of music and beyond. As he continues to develop his unique sound and style, Omari Neville is definitely an artist to watch in the ongoing Neville dynasty.