Omar Baliw
Omar Baliw | |
|---|---|
| Birth name | Omar Harry Balmes Manzano |
| Origin | Makati |
| Genres | Hip-hop |
| Instrument | Vocals |
| Years active | 2011–present |
Omar Harry Balmes Manzano,[1] professionally known as Omar Baliw, is a Filipino rapper.
Career
[edit]Omar Harry Manzano is a native of Naga, Camarines Sur but is a resident of Pembo, Makati (now Taguig). He started making music while he was still a teenager and worked odd-jobs during college such as being gasoline station attendant and a restroom cleaner.[1]
He started being active in the hip-hop scene in 2008 and later released his debut album "High Minds Music" in 2011.[2] His parents were skeptical of him pursuing a career in the genre but a microphone gifted by his then-girlfriend now wife encouraged him. His stage name Omar Baliw (baliw being Filipino for "crazy") is a reference to his performing style which is characterized by tendency to jump and do tumblings.[2] He has named Gloc-9 as an inspiration for his works.[3]
His big break came when he released "K&B" in 2019 which was performed with fellow artist CLR.[3]
Omar Baliw established presence in Spotify and set up a YouTube channel to exhibit his works. He is also present in Facebook and TikTok.[1] He has also collaborated with other artists including Gloc-9.[2]
In June 2022, Believe Artist Services signed Omar to a management contract[2] In June 2023, he became part of the Asintada Management and Production Inc. talent agency ran by Gloc-9's wife.[3]
In September 2023, he announced intention to retire in five years time before he turns 40 years old to focus on his family.[2]
Baliw sued senatorial candidate and Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Apollo Quiboloy for using a remix of his song "K&B" for the pastor's campaign jingle in March 2025.[4]
Personal life
[edit]He is married to Dana, whom he first dated during his college years.[1] He has two children.[2] He also runs the High Minds Clothing line.[2]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d Sallan, Edwin (September 24, 2023). "Finding the Right Direction: Hip-hop sensation Omar Baliw on inspiring positivity". BusinessMirror. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
- ^ a b c d e f g "Omar Baliw and the Kalmado lifestyle". Manila Bulletin. September 23, 2023. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
- ^ a b c "Hip-hop artist Omar Baliw is now part of Asintada". ABS-CBN News. June 21, 2023. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
- ^ Evangelista, Jessica Ann (March 24, 2025). "Apollo Quiboloy charged with copyright infringement by rapper". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved March 25, 2025.
External links
[edit]- Omar Baliw at YouTube