Omar from Slovenia: "My song is about my journey"

Omar has been involved in music since the age of 16. He composes, arranges and produces his own material as well as plays the guitar, bass guitar and piano. Find out more about his varied career by reading his participant profile.   

Ahead of his first rehearsal Omar was in a reflective mood. “The contest is very different compared to when I last participated 12 years ago. I am much more mature than I was back then and I am much more aware of what is going on. This is a bigger thing for me now than it was back then, it’s a big honour,” he said.   

Omar wrote his song, On My Way, around 10 years ago and it's a personal one for him. "I was lost, lonely at that time really as I had just split up with my girlfriend. I was 25 and didn't know what to do. I knew I wasn't mature enough to pull the song off and that's why I waited, I guess I did the right thing."

Ahead of his rehearsal Omar gave Eurovision.tv a sneak peek inside his dressing room. He also revealed that he wears a chain with a crucifix, given to him by his father, which he regards as his lucky charm. Omar is looking forward to being reunited with his fellow contestants who he met whilst on tour. “It sounds a little like a cliché but we really are like one family”.   

Omar is planning to make the most of his time in Kyiv. "I'm going to try and see it this time. Last time I was here I partied way too much and slept through the days but it's different this time!"

Now that Omar is older and wiser, what advice would be give to his younger self? “My younger self probably wouldn’t listen to my older self,” he joked. “I am better prepared and in better shape. Last time I was all over the place, I now know what this means, it’s the biggest music festival in the world and I’m on my way!”