For rapper and music producer Saksham Shrestha, popularly known as OMG Spark, music is not just about composition, lyrics, and arrangement—it goes beyond that. It is about originality and reflecting lifestyle, culture, and tradition. Guided by this philosophy, he began creating songs that represented himself, his community, and his nation.
Why tradtional elements in rap ?
While many Nepali rap songs feature beats influenced by Western music, OMG Spark stands out as an exception. His rap incorporates traditional elements, blending Nepal Bhasa (Newari language) and traditional instruments like the khi, bhusiya, flute, dhimay, and sarangi to create a unique sound that resonates with cultural authenticity. His latest track also in Nepal Bhasa accompanied by a flute.
OMG Spark feels deeply satisfied when he uses traditional elements in his music. This allows him to represent himself more authentically and ensures that his art remains true to his roots.
“My music makes me feel connected to my culture, and in some way, I feel like I am contributing to its preservation,” says OMG Spark.
Earlier, OMG Spark was primarily known as a music producer, having worked with artists like Uniq Poet and Balen. Even during that time, he harboured the idea of creating a fusion of rap and traditional music.
In 2021, while attending Indrajatra, a festival celebrated in Nepal, he was struck by the idea of recording the traditional instruments played during the festival and blending them with rap music. Since no one had attempted this before in rap songs, OMG Spark decided to experiment with the concept, and he was satisfied with the outcome.
Since his debut album, Made in Himalaya (2021), OMG Spark has been experimenting with blending traditional elements into rap music. His first EP, Death of Autotune (2023), is a collection of experimental tracks that challenge the over-reliance on autotune in modern music.
Each track on the EP is raw, and unfiltered, and showcases his commitment to authenticity. His second album, Valley Jamz (2024), takes this fusion further by incorporating Newari folk rhythms, melodies, and traditional instruments, seamlessly intertwining them with the beats and lyrical flow of contemporary hip-hop. Not only his songs but also the cover art of each of his albums celebrates local art and culture.
OMG Spark says that his love for the culture, tradition, and the entire nation stems from hatred. Once, he was extremely disappointed with the country due to its corrupt system and seeing many youths leaving.
“I was filled with hatred toward the country, but gradually, as they say, too much hate turns into love. That is how I developed a love for the country,” he says, “Now, I am very hopeful about Nepal.”
Talking further about his music, he adds that it is not just for Nepali audiences but also aims to showcase Nepali brilliance to international listeners.
From rock to rap
Born and raised in Kathmandu, OMG Spark spent most of his childhood in a cassette shop owned by his parents in New Road. This gave him access to every kind of music, ranging from rock, pop, and hip-hop to folk. Back then, he used to listen to Michael Jackson, the Beatles, Metallica, and even bhajans from Nepali and Indian artists.
In fourth grade, he picked up the guitar in school as part of ECA and would play songs by Karma, Led Zeppelin, and others. His father also played the guitar, which further fueled his fascination with music. OMG, Spark even performed at some school gigs.
Gradually, his interest and curiosity towards music began to increase. In 2013 he came across a rap battle show Raw Barz. The show fascinated him towards rap music.
“I found that in rap artists can paint a picture without limitations,” says the 23-year-old rapper, recalling the time when he discovered Raw Barz.
The X factor
Another noteworthy aspect of OMG Spark is that, unlike most rap artists, he has recently started performing with a live band featuring instruments such as the sitar, sarangi, electronic drums, and occasionally other traditional instruments like khi and dhimay, depending on the nature of the gig.
So far he has done two shows with the live band.
“It is a privilege to perform with a live band. I guess every artist wants to perform with one, but many technical challenges make it difficult,” says OMG Spark. “I want to push this fusion even further,” he says.
OMG Spark sees his music as more than just entertainment—it’s a bridge between generations, a preservation of heritage, and a statement that Nepali rap has a distinct identity. As he continues to experiment with sound and language, he hopes to take his music beyond Nepal, proving that authenticity resonates across borders.
