Omari Banks, the first Anguillian to grace Test cricket for the West Indies back in May 2003, etched his name in sporting history with a memorable innings at the Antigua Recreation Ground. His unbeaten 47 played a pivotal role in the West Indies’ monumental fourth-innings chase of 418 against Australia.

Today, Banks is celebrated not only for his cricketing feats but also as a renowned recording artist and songwriter. His latest endeavor, the eagerly anticipated single “Africa Identity,” is slated for release on July 19th via ONErpm. This marks Banks’ triumphant return to the music scene following a two-year hiatus since his last release, “Educate Us,” in 2022.

Inspired by Anguilla’s 50th anniversary of carnival celebrations, “Africa Identity” is a blend of soca and Afro beat, paying homage to the island’s cultural richness and its deep ties to African heritage. Produced and written by Banks himself, the song reflects his childhood memories and the musical influences that shaped his upbringing.

“I drew inspiration from the 50th year of carnival celebrations in Anguilla, which commemorates emancipation from slavery and celebrates our African identity,” Banks explains. “Growing up in Anguilla, the music I heard and the emotions it stirred, along with our African ancestry, all influenced the creation of this song.”

Collaborating closely with Dennis Warrington, Banks crafted a beat that seamlessly merges soca and Afro beat elements, with his signature guitar playing adding a distinctive flair. Legendary Jamaican saxophonist Dean Fraser further enhances the track with soulful horn arrangements.

Known for spreading messages of love and consciousness through his music, Banks shares, “I want people to feel proud of who they are and to remember the lessons of the past that shape our future.”

As anticipation builds for “Africa Identity,” Banks hints at a forthcoming album slated for release in 2025. “Music evolves as life does, and I’m inspired by the present moment,” he reveals. “Expect more of my guitar-driven sound, with some uptempo tunes added into the mix.”

While plans for a music video are yet to be confirmed, fans can look forward to a lyric video accompanying the release. Banks will also perform “Africa Identity” during his upcoming tours across the US and UK this summer and fall, promising unforgettable live performances that capture the essence of his latest musical endeavor.

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