Gambia’s rising mbalax sensation recetly returned home, after a four- month successful tour of United States. Gambia’s rising mbalax star, during which he was awarded as the best upcoming artist in the Gambia.

Pa Omar Jack was conferred the prestigious award by Gambians in US in recognition of his talents and creative music over the years.

Described by many as another rising sensation, POJ as fondly called, still remainsdetermined to reach the musical summit one day. He is among a few artists from The Gambia taking steps to pursue a musical career in the line of mbalax (music genre originating from the Senegambia region).

Over the years it was popularised by artists from Senegal and Gambia, and mainly Senegalese artist Grammy award winner Yousou Ndour. Over the years he has played in the club circuits, more usually around the hotel Venues with various bands, and has been an opening act for many bands. The 25-year-old has created a niche to dispel the social belief that mbalax from Gambia is dead.

POJ, during his four-month stint in US entertained Gambians from all walks of life, a move meant to promote the country’s heritage and mbalax music in generally. While in US he also performed across major cities in like New York, Seattle, Atlanta during activities marking America’s Independence on July 4th.

Over the years, he and his Jeff Jell band have played in many venues especially around the Senegambia hotel areas. He has so far released two successful thriller albums namely-‘Mr Fish and Chips’ and Gambia ‘Cha Kanang’, a Wolof parlance meaning ‘Gambian forward’ which have all done well in the market.