Omi Bentayga: Redefining the Music Landscape

Omi Bentayga isn't just making music; he's building a legacy. With a drive fueled by ambition and a vision that extends beyond the recording booth, Bentayga is poised to become a force in the music industry. His goal is clear: "Make money, shift culture, and outlast these so-called legends who aren't really built for this era."
Bentayga’s dedication stems from a desire to leave an indelible mark. "I’m not here to be a one-hit wonder or just another name in the mix," he states. "Every track I drop is a step toward being undeniable." This commitment to longevity is coupled with a keen understanding of the music business. “Talent alone ain’t enough,” Bentayga emphasizes. “This game is about strategy, consistency, and knowing how to move. Plenty of gifted artists fade out because they don’t understand the business or how to keep evolving.”
While he aims to forge his own path, Bentayga acknowledges influences that inspire him. "I’d rather be the blueprint than the comparison, but if I had to choose… Jay-Z for the business mind, Lil Wayne for the work ethic, and Future for the influence." His artistic expression extends beyond music, encompassing fashion and film. "Style and visuals are just as powerful as sound when it comes to making a statement," he explains. Bentayga views life through a creative lens, transforming experiences into art. "Having an artistic outlook means seeing the world as inspiration – every win, every loss, every moment is fuel for creation. It’s about pushing boundaries, making statements, and turning life into something timeless."
Bentayga's journey hasn't been without its challenges. He acknowledges the potential for isolation in the artistic process, countering it by "surrounding myself with real ones who understand the mission and staying connected to the people through my music." His diverse background, including roles as a college student, restaurant server, construction worker, life insurance agent, audio engineer, cameraman, boom operator, entrepreneur, and currently an infantryman in the U.S. Army, has enriched his perspective and fuels his creative process. "My passions fuel everything. Whether it’s storytelling, fashion, or culture, they all feed into the music," he says. "I take inspiration from everywhere – what I see, what I wear, what I experience – and flip it into sound. It keeps my process authentic and constantly evolving."
Bentayga envisions a music industry focused on artistry rather than metrics. "I’d cut out all the fake metrics – streaming numbers, social media clout, all that," he asserts. "It’s about the art, not the algorithm. I’d make it about the music again, giving true talent more space to shine without needing to chase validation through numbers.” He’s learned valuable lessons through setbacks, including being scammed early in his career. "Learned real quick that not everyone offering a hand is trying to help, and I had to sharpen my game and trust my instincts more." He also faced the fear of pursuing his dream, admitting, "There were nights I thought I wouldn’t make it, but those doubts pushed me to work harder and prove myself wrong every time."
For Bentayga, Kanye West's "All of the Lights" embodies success. "It’s bold, it’s triumphant, and it captures the chaos and the glory of success. That track feels like you’re standing on top of the world, but it also reminds you of the journey to get there." He believes artists have a crucial role in society. "Artists are the truth-tellers, the visionaries, the ones who challenge the status quo. We reflect society, but we also shape it. Whether it’s through music, visuals, or fashion, we’re pushing culture forward and giving people a voice they might not have otherwise."