Elli Hekima, born Omar Facey on June 30, 1975, in St. Thomas, Jamaica, is a gifted reggae and roots artist with an extensive and distinguished musical journey. Raised in August Town, St. Andrew, he discovered his passion for music early, singing in his church youth choir from the age of 10 and performing at school concerts and community events.  

 

Growing up in a musical household, Elli was inspired by his father’s Sunday selections of Bob Marley, Jacob Miller, and Dennis Brown, as well as by Big Youth, a fellow St. Thomas native. These influences, combined with his early vocal training in church, helped shape his unique sound and deep-rooted love for reggae music. As a teenager, he began singing on sound systems across various Jamaican communities, quickly gaining local support in Bedward Gardens, August Town, and beyond.  

 

At 19, encouraged by a mentor, Elli began seeking out recording studios to advance his career. This led to collaborations with acclaimed reggae bassist Christopher Meredith and studio engineer Geoffrey Star of Bust Out Studio. He also connected with Michigan, from the legendary duo Michigan & Smiley, who recognized Elli’s potential and became both his producer and mentor. Under Michigan’s guidance, Elli released his first single, “So in Love,” at the age of 25, marking the official start of his recording career.  

 

Elli went on to write and record extensively, building a catalog of more than 60 singles and three albums. Among his notable early works is the song “No Cork and Crack,” whose melody was inspired by Leroy Smart. In 2004, his career expanded internationally as he toured with reggae greats such as Gregory Isaacs, John Holt, and Dean Fraser, performing across Canada, Europe, and Jamaica.  

 

A committed member of the Twelve Tribes of Israel, Elli deepened his spiritual and musical journey by joining the group Orthodox Family, performing alongside artists such as Israel Voice, Ras Negus I, and Natural Black. He continued to tour with Natural Black throughout Jamaica, the Caribbean, and Europe, further solidifying his reputation as a powerful live performer.  

 

In 2014, Elli relocated to Tanzania and adopted the name Elli Hekima, signaling a new chapter in his artistic evolution. In East and Southern Africa, he immersed himself in the local music scene and collaborated with prominent artists including Davan Trappe, Chindo Man, Fido Vato, Mex Cortez, P Kulcha, Chaba, and Stopa Rhymes. His versatility and cultural openness earned him recognition across the region and led to performances in Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, and other African countries.  

 

From 2021 to 2026, Elli released a series of impactful singles, including “My Life,” “We’re Who We’re,” “I Pray,” “Gone Crazy,” and “Royal Love,” reflecting his growth as a songwriter and his commitment to uplifting, conscious music. Over the past 25 years, his body of work and consistent output have made him a respected voice in contemporary reggae and African-influenced roots music.  

 

Elli’s presence extends beyond the stage and studio into media and broadcast. Throughout his time in Tanzania, he has been featured in numerous radio interviews and live segments, sharing his story, spirituality, and music on major stations such as Best FM, Clouds FM, and Nega FM, among others. These interviews, along with regular airplay of his songs, have helped cement his status as a recognized and influential artist in the region.  

 

Now signed to NAJ RECORDS, Elli Hekima continues to elevate his career, blending his Jamaican roots, African experiences, and spiritual foundation into music that resonates across cultures. His journey from church choirs and sound systems to international tours and African airwaves underscores his dedication, resilience, and enduring impact as a versatile and soulful artist on the global stage.