Today we’d like to introduce you to Omar Mitchell
Hi Omar, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have never shied away from embracing my individuality and exploring my passions, which has garnered me a distinct reputation. In elementary school, my school librarian at Oakland Elementary, Mrs. Janet Damon, played a significant role in creating an interest in media that I still have today. She taught me how to edit videos and create PowerPoint presentations with audio at the tender age of 8 years. Another teacher from Oakland who was around to assist was my computer teacher, Scott Hollaway, who taught me how to use a computer and type correctly. In middle and high school, my computer teacher, Ms. Morten, recognized my talent for technology and encouraged me to hone my graphic design, web development, coding, and more skills. Upon graduating, I ventured into journalism, vowing not to rely on others for my success, which led to the creation of Dope At Its Finest and Dream World Studios. Growing up, one of my most significant cultural influences was N.E.R.D., which consisted of Pharell Williams and Chad Hugo. Something about them was just so cool and fresh to me; they were unapologetically themselves, from how they dressed to how they produced new sounds and trends in the music industry. I remember vividly the first time I ever heard “Frontin” featuring Jay-Z; I was six years old and spending the day at the Montbello Rec Center as usual, and sure enough, I saw that video, and everything changed. It was essential for a young black male like myself at the time to see somebody dress and act how I always wanted to; it confirmed that it was okay to like whatever it was that caught my attention, even if that wasn’t the norm for everyone else. My older brother is a professional musician, and we are 12 years apart, so I always found my way into my big brother’s business and picked up his interest and love for music at an early age. My pops are 69 years old, so I grew up hearing all the good music: Ojay’s, Temptations, Paul Hardcastle, Michael Jackson, and much more. I took lessons and paid attention to everything I mentioned, so naturally, music and fashion were vital to my upbringing.
In recent years, I have had the honor of penning articles for numerous musicians, artists, and creatives worldwide. Particularly in the past year, I’ve collaborated closely with Universal Music Group and their PR team, conducting interviews and covering artists launching new music. I’ve had the privilege of interviewing esteemed personalities like Leon Thomas, Big Boss Vette, Skilla Baby, and many others. Additionally, I have contributed pieces exclusively for renowned entities such as Universal Music Group, Def Jam Records, Capitol Records, Interscope Records, and more. The road to achieving this position has been arduous, but witnessing my written work featured in various publications and people donning the clothing I designed has made every step of this journey immensely rewarding.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As I mentioned before in a previous interview. In 2015, a rising blog based in Denver focused on the intertwining worlds of music and fashion. At that time, the blog was looking for fresh, captivating content and individuals willing to contribute to it. Seizing the opportunity, I reached out to inquire about featuring my friend’s music. The response I received revealed that they needed journalists and suggested that I take on the role of author to have the music covered. After embracing the challenge, I was promoted to the respectable position of editor-in-chief of the blog, a role I fulfilled for a remarkable two-year tenure. However, my reality abruptly shifted one day when I attempted to log in and discovered that I had been removed from the site. The initial discomfort gave way to a deep-rooted rekindling of my passion for journalism. After a period of contemplation and acceptance, I made a vow to myself that I would never allow such heartache to overwhelm me again. Last year alone was a crazy year for me. I was at a point where everything I worked for in life could have gone. As a religious person, I believe God has a plan for me, so I am still here to tell my story. Always keep your surroundings tight and close-knit and live in every moment.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I have a brand called “Dope At Its Finest”, and another called Dream World Studios. I started it in 2016 as a blog/magazine to showcase artists, designers, and athletes from my city. Content creation, and journalism as well as creative direction, is something that I have mastered, as it plays a very critical role in successful brand building. I transitioned from only writing and editing to creating my own clothing and apparel for the magazine. Last year, my friends and I bought an office/warehouse for our business and named it Dream World Studios after the brand name. The warehouse side of things consists of a photography studio, clothing printing machines, and space set up for podcasts, live events, and all things media. Earlier this year, I won Writer of the Year in Denver, Colorado, which is very near and dear to my heart. I’m known as the person who interviews people in my hometown, which is why, for once, something like this feels good to me on the receiving end.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m a natural, down-to-earth person; all you have to do is reach out and make that connection. Whether it’s a message, a DM, or an email, reach out, and I will tap in. I am big on working with those interested in working with me, especially when it comes to collaborations; that’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I don’t require you to pay me for coverage as other brands or publications do; as long as I like it, I don’t mind shining a light on what you do. For those looking to support what I have going on, I will have my pages and links attached to the next page.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.DopeAtItsFinest.com
- Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/ImJustOmar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LilThrillz22
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ImJustOmar
- Other: https://www.lizzybrodie.com/
Image Credits
James Baker (Skuba Vision)
Jalen Bellaire (TM Roshii)
Dae-Jha Dixon (Sonder222)
