INTERVIEW MONSTRE : OMAR COLEMAN & IGOR PRADO "We would love to bring our music to France more often too!"
Jean-Jacques, who is a huge blues fan, had the brilliant idea of reaching out to Omar Coleman and Igor Prado following our Top Monsters feature. Here’s the result—thanks to all three of you.
Taste question: Which artists have influenced you the most, and what examples can you tell us about this influence? Who is the artist you dislike and why will he/she never influence you?
OC: Honestly, the artists who’ve influenced me the most are Junior Wells, Johnny Taylor, Marvin Sease, Al Green, Sugar Blue, and Rico McFarland. Their music taught me how to put real emotion into every note and tell a story with sound. On the flip side, I don’t really like artists who rely just on image or gimmicks to influence me—I respect dedication, learning your craft, and showing up every day.
IP: I’d say the masters of Blues music have influenced me the most—legendary figures like T-Bone Walker, B.B. King, Albert Collins, and Albert King. I’m also deeply influenced by some of the lesser-known greats like Wayne Bennett, Robert Lockwood Jr., and Bill Jennings.
Regarding artists I dislike, I can’t really think of anyone I completely dismiss. I believe we can learn something, even if it's just a small detail, from every artist. I think any musician can influence you in some way."
Intellectual question: Which non-musical artist (filmmaker, writer, painter...) played an important role in the way you evolved…
IP: "I’ve always been deeply inspired by thriller cinema, and Alfred Hitchcock is the artist who has impacted me the most. His mastery of suspense and his innovative storytelling have definitely influenced my creative process. I believe the way he captures an audience's attention is something every artist can learn from."
OC: Working with Igor has been incredible. Our collaboration is really about blending the Chicago blues I grew up with and the funk and soul he brings on guitar. Over time, we’ve pushed each other to get better, try new things, and refine our sound—it’s been a journey of growth for both of us.
IP: Omar and I go back about 15 years. We've shared the stage on many tours across Brazil over the years. He also collaborated with us on our album 'Way Down South', which was a real honor—especially when it received a Blues Music Award nomination in the States in 2016.
Selfish question: Do you prefer a solo approach or collaborate with other artists or in a band?
OC: I love collaborating more than going solo. There’s something about feeding off another artist’s energy, especially Igor’s, that takes the music somewhere I couldn’t get alone.
IP: I see myself as a guitarist and music producer, and often my 'producer side' takes the lead over my 'guitarist side.' Because of that, I’ve always loved collaborations. I enjoy performing with different people and exploring diverse musical styles—I’ve never liked being tied down to just one thing.
Buddy question: Who has helped you most for this disc and both of you in the evolution of your music ?
OC: Sallie Bengtson has been huge for us. She’s backed this record, supported us as artists, and helped open doors we couldn’t have on our own. Her integrity and belief in us mean a lot.
IP: So many people were involved, but first, I have to highlight the musicians here in Brazil who truly master Soul and Funk—especially my brother Yuri Prado. He played drums, all the percussion, and even designed the album cover and graphic art. Our friendship and energy really shine through on the record; the whole process felt very natural.
We also owe a huge thanks to Sallie Bengtson from Nola Blue Records. She truly believed in this project, embraced our vision, and 'went to battle' for us. She is incredible—in the world of Blues and Roots music, I’ve met very few people with her level of dedication.
Spinal Tap question: What’s the most stupid thing that’s ever happened to you?
OC: The dumbest thing? I’d say showing up to a gig unprepared because I underestimated the material. Learned my lesson quick—it never feels good!
IP: Honestly, I can't even pick one because stupid things happen to me several times a day! Hahaha.
Question Happy Few: What’s the biggest benefit you’ve derived from your collaboration and for your career in general, and can you tell us about it?
OC: The biggest benefit of collaborating with Igor? Growth, honestly. Artistically, personally, and professionally. It’s helped me reach more people, build a career that allows touring and recording, and stay true to the music I love.
IP: I believe the greatest benefit is making true friends all over the world—that’s worth much more than money. The Blues community is incredibly welcoming, especially in the U.S., and we always end up making lifelong friends, which is exactly what happened with Omar Coleman.
Art question: What book, film, record and current band do you really like?
OC: Books? I haven't read anything lately other than fishing magazines
Current bands I’m into? Igor’s projects, Rico McFarland plus anyone keeping the blues alive with a modern twist.
IP: When it comes to books, I’ve got to stick with my Blues roots! I loved Ike Turner’s autobiography—he was such a master of the craft. And B.B. King’s autobiography is a true life lesson with every turn of the page; I highly recommend it.
Film-wise, I’m a huge Alfred Hitchcock fan, but I also really dig Quentin Tarantino’s work. There’s always so much plot and, man, the soundtracks are just incredible!
As for current bands, the funny thing is I’m still mostly listening to the masters from the '60s and '70s.
Funny question. What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you?
OC: The funniest thing that’s ever happened? One time my buddy ran over my harmonicas in my backpack by mistake!
IP: Honestly? It was probably me just now, struggling to remember a single band that isn’t from the '60s or '70s for the previous question! Hahaha.
Camembert question: What’s France to you, apart from the land of wine and cheese?
OC: France? Beyond wine and cheese, I see it as a symbol of culture, creativity, and underground artistry. It inspires me to push the music and expression part of what I do.
IP: I’ve been to France a few times, and it’s a true melting pot of culture. I have many musician friends there, and I love the artistic energy. I’m especially fond of that Gypsy Jazz sound—it was so huge in France and has such a unique, fiery spirit! We would love to bring our music to France more often too!
Sponsorship question: Who can you sponsor for Les Monstres Sacrés, and how can you convince us to talk about them?
OC: If I could sponsor Les Monstres Sacrés, it would be with people who respect the craft of music, support real musicianship, and want to help artists build meaningful careers. It’s all about integrity and passion.
Patriotic question: Make the list (between 5 & 10) of the top records made by artists of our country.
IP: "Being a guitarist, I naturally gravitate toward the Manouche movement. Anything featuring Stéphane Grappelli and Django Reinhardt is at the top of my list. Here are some essential French records from my perspective:
1. Django Reinhardt - Djangology
2. Stéphane Grappelli - Unique Piano Session (To see his genius beyond the violin).
3. The Djangostation - Swing de Paris
4. Jacques Dutronc - Et moi, et moi, et moi (Great 60s rock energy).
5. Ben Oncle Soul - I really like this guy doing Soul and R&B singing in french.
Patriotic question 2 : Make the list (between 5 & 10) of the top records made by artists of your country.
OC: I’m sorry but I don’t have a list. Its just too numerous for me to name.
IP:
1. Jorge Benjor - Tabua da Esmeralda
2. Tim Maia - Racional
3. Gilberto Gil - Refazenda
4. Blues Etilicos - Dente de Ouro
5. Cassiano - Onda
Thank you Jean-Jacques, Omar and Igor
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