Alec "Om" Khaoli is a celebrated South African musician, bassist, songwriter, and producer whose influence on the country's music scene has been profound since he emerged in the 1970s. Known for his innovative approach to music, Khaoli has remained a pivotal figure in both the evolution of traditional South African sounds and their fusion with modern genres.
Om Alec Khaoli first gained recognition as a member of the Afrorock supergroup Harari, originally known as The Beaters. His collaboration with legendary musicians such as Sipho 'Hotstix' Mabuse and Funky Masike Mohapi positioned him as a key figure in South Africa's music landscape during the volatile era of the 1970s.
In the 1980s, Khaoli embarked on a solo journey and established the band Umoja. Umoja became a nurturing platform for several aspiring musicians, introducing talents such as Don Laka, Chicco Twala, and Donavan Knox to the world. His groundbreaking work as a solo artist includes several noteworthy albums:
Khaoli's musical style is known for blending various influences, spanning rock, pop, soul, and disco. His innovative use of the bass guitar as a leading instrument and pioneering use of technology like the vocoder were revolutionary, setting new standards in South African music.
With a knack for creating infectious rhythms that resonated across cultural boundaries, Om Alec's music was particularly popular in township shebeens, fostering a vibrant club culture that thrived during apartheid. Some of his hits that gained international acclaim include:
Alec Khaoli's establishment of Fireworks Studio in Pimville, Soweto, was a landmark achievement as he became the first black South African to own a private recording studio. This studio served as a sanctuary for black artists seeking recording opportunities during the oppressively segregated apartheid era, with Khaoli spearheading many young musicians' careers.
As of 2019, Om Alec Khaoli continued to be active in the music industry, showing an undying commitment to producing new music and collaborating with emerging artists.
Alec "Om" Khaoli remains an iconic figure in the realm of South African music, celebrated for his mastery of the bass guitar, his insightful production work, and his enduring influence on African popular music.
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