Some artists are celebrated for what’s visible — the voice, the work, the art. But what moves me most is often what people don’t see: the brilliance behind the curtain, the spirit that fuels the craft. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing many gifted people. Today I want to pause to give flowers to three: Omar Lunan, Glenn Lewis, and Jibola Fagbamiye.
Omar Lunan
People know Omar for his voice — powerful, soulful, magnetic. They see him on stage with The Recipe Band, lifting the crowd with music that makes you want to dance.
What they may not realize is the depth of authenticity behind that performance. Omar doesn’t just sing — he connects. He has a gift for making music feel personal, like it’s meant just for you, even in a crowded room. And off stage, his kindness is just as real. He celebrates others, lifts them up, and gives flowers freely.
I’ll never forget the first time I heard him at Harborfront Centre, when life felt unbearably heavy. His voice gave me light that day. And that’s who Omar is: someone whose artistry doesn’t just entertain, but heals.
Glenn Lewis
When people talk about Glenn Lewis, they talk about his voice: smooth, soulful, timeless — and it’s true, his voice is unforgettable.
But what I don’t think people always see is just how gifted he is as a creator. Writing a song that truly resonates — one with heart and a hook that stays with you — is one of the hardest things in music. And yet Glenn has this way of stepping into the moment, hearing a beat for the first time, and breathing life into it. He starts weaving melodies, layering harmonies, shaping something new and beautiful right before your eyes.
To witness that is to realize that his artistry goes far beyond the voice people already admire. It’s not ease — it’s dedication, craft, and brilliance honed over years. But he carries it with such humility that it almost feels like magic.
People know Glenn is vocally gifted. What I wish more people understood is how extraordinary he is as a composer and creator. That’s the part I’ve been lucky enough to see — and it’s just as awe-inspiring as his voice.
Jibola Fagbamiye
People see Jibola’s finished work — stunning, detailed, layered pieces that draw you in. His debut graphic novel, FELA: Music Is the Weapon, reimagines the legendary Fela Kuti through Yoruba mythology, culture, and music.
What they may not realize is the quiet strength and humility behind it. Jibola doesn’t create for applause — he creates to honour, to preserve, to uplift. His art speaks loudly because he doesn’t have to.
When I photographed him recently, what struck me most was his stillness — an artist whose vision is vast, but whose spirit is grounded. His brilliance is not only in what he makes, but in the integrity with which he makes it.
Omar, Glenn, Jibola — thank you. For what the world sees, and for the even greater brilliance that so often goes unseen.