Omar Apolonio Velasco, more commonly known as Omar Apollo, was born on May 20, 1997. A testament to the power of hard work and dedication, Apollo's story began at ground zero. As a young artist who lives in the present, he defied societal norms and the traditional path of a 9-to-5 job to passionately pursue his music career.
Omar Apollo is a humanist at heart, and his advocacy for celebrating pride and happiness shines through in his music. As the child of immigrants from Guadalajara, Mexico, Apollo's upbringing is deeply rooted in the American Dream. His music reflects the influence of both his Mexican heritage and his experiences as a first-generation American, resulting in a unique and timeless sound that blends genres and transcends cultural boundaries.
Apollo's journey to success began when he started uploading music to SoundCloud and Spotify, overcoming obstacles like borrowing $30 from a friend to pay for the subscription fee. His perseverance paid off when he signed with Warner Records and released his debut full-length album, 'Ivory', in 2022. Apollo's 'American Dream', however, is a distinct departure from the traditional narrative, as he enjoys the opportunities and freedom afforded to him as a first-generation American in his family.
With each release, Omar Apollo's music carries more of his message and style, connecting to a wide range of listeners and winning the hearts of millions. His ability to understand and blend the cadences of American and Spanish music sets him apart as a singer-songwriter. While his music defies strict categorization, elements of pop and RnB are noticeable, and the "bedroom pop" label seems fitting considering his meteoric rise and beginnings as an artist.
For Apollo, inspiration comes from living in the present moment. This philosophy is reflected not only in his music but also in his life. According to The Industry Times, Omar believes in the power of self-acceptance and embraces the present, refusing to let the weight of the future hold him down. This approach is exemplified in his release 'Stayback', which represents a new era for Apollo where his identity and music boldly take centre stage. The music video encapsulates his values, touching on themes of race, sexuality, and artistry within the music industry.
Apollo's creative process is guided by his authentic vision, rather than the opinions of others. He believes that artists should trust themselves and create the music they want, prioritizing the enjoyment of their fans and listeners over the input of industry insiders. By staying true to his beliefs, Apollo not only finds happiness for himself but also brings joy to those around him, including his listeners, family, and friends.
In an industry that often prizes conformity, Omar Apollo stands out as a trailblazer who embraces his unique identity, roots, and values. His music transcends boundaries and touches the hearts of millions, all while staying true to his principles of living in the present and believing in the power of self-acceptance. As Omar Apollo continues to forge his own path, his story serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when passion, determination, and authenticity guide the way.
