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Overview
Takes you back with old school to new school singing R&B, Soul, Blues, Jazz, Classic Rock, Reggae, Adult Contemporary, and Gospel. Oya sings as a soloist with instrumental tracks, or as a duo, trio, & with full band.
Oya travels all over the nation and has bands and musicians already located in many cities/states including: California (From the Bay, Los Angeles to San Diego)-Las Vegas, NV -Chicago, IL -Atlanta, GA -Alabama -Virginia
Along with singing and performing, Oya has a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Spiritual Psychology. Oya has her own practice where she works with people to manifest their dreams and bring peace into their personal lives, relationships, careers and homes.
19 Reviews
From start to finish, Oya & her band were spectacularly accommodating & flexible. Her dynamic, positive, amazing energy and admirable professionalism are matched only by her incredible talent. With a musical range & ease most musicians would give their left kidney for, Oya customized songs for us, was able to span a full range of genres with great facility, and even threw in a few delightful surprises on our wedding day: My husband is from New Zealand, and Oya went above and beyond, charting & performing a few special songs from my new hubby's favorite local Auckland band-the treat of the night for all his friends from Down Under! In two words: Oya is simply amazing! -- Holly H, Napa, CA, 8/22/2010
Wedding Band, Wedding Singer
Oya gave a wonderful performance. Unusual high winds at the outdoors venue did not deter her. She sang “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” with high volume and great power. Oya sang A Capella. Many soloists are not able to do that. We are very pleased.
I hope to hire Oya for a more joyous event in the future.
Gospel Singer
Oya sang at my grandmother's homegoing celebration on 3/14/15. She has one of the most soothing and melodic voices that I have ever heard. Everyone asked about her and had assumed that she was a family member because she sang with such love and compassion. Our family could never thank her enough for making our celebration everything that we wanted it to be. She's professional, punctual, helpful, and considerate. I highly recommend her to anyone who values those qualities. And she can SING!
Gospel Singer
I booked Oya as the performer for a friends birthday party. She was in a word Wonderful! She arrived on time, which was important as this was a surprised. We asked for smooth jazz/R&B and her song choice was right on point. Her voice and accompanying keyboardist were spectacular. When she was close to the end of her final set everyone at the party were enjoying her so much that they requested she stay and continue. Oya was very flexible and we were able to quickly reach an agreement that allowed her to stay longer. She was the highlight of the party and did a wonderful job. Her promotional songs and video perfectly represent the excellent performer that she is. I would definitely book her again.
Singer/Songwriter
I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Oya. This woman pulled off a miracle when I was looking for a gospel choir group with a short deadline. She went out of her way to make sure I was filled in on her progress. She was also willing to negotiate a fair price and I will 100% without a doubt be using her again in the future. What impresses me most about Oya is her ability to understand my vision and then execute it 110 times better then I had originally envisioned. She is such a pleasure to work with. We can't wait to hire her again. She is truly, truly, AMAZING!
Choir, Gospel Music Group, Gospel Singer
Amazing singer, but also a true entertainer
Oya is amazing. She agreed on short notice to perform for the 50th anniversary of my parents' wedding. She is not just an accomplished singer, but also professional. She can read an audience, engage a crowd and get people swaying, clapping and dancing. Her voice and range is phenomenal. She is a consummate entertainer and exceeded all of my expectations. She struck just the right tone and made a special day very memorable
R&B Vocalist
Where do I start?! Oya was AMAZING!! There is a reason why she has all great reviews, she did an excellant job. She had all the guest at our anniversary party clapping and singing along. She was exactly what we needed to get the party started, Oya was everything I expected and more. She was one time, professional and personable. And the fact that she is just as beautiful in person is a big plus! LOL.... She is truely a beautiful soul and Oya was the highlight of our gathering, our friends and family are still talking about her. Many Thanks Oya!
R&B Vocalist
WOW! THIS GIRL CAN SING! Oya had hit one of many high notes effortlessly during our dinner show, displaying stellar vocal range that kept our wedding guest dancing and singing along. They kept asking me “WHERE DID YOU FIND HER?”. You touched our hearts and surprised us to the point that we were in tears, especially when you did our special request to each other. That was beautiful. Everything from your entrance into the chapel hall singing Etta James’s “At last” and my bride walking down the aisle to Donnie Mcclurkin and Yolanda Adam’s “The Prayer” it was magical. You are a true professional and a great artist. Thank you for coming to SF. We were blessed to find you.
R&B Vocalist
Oya is an amazing young woman that left most of us speechless and grateful to have been blessed with her gift of song and just her amazing presence. She is exactly what "sarah" needed and the whole evening was a success. She's an inspiration to us all and I can't wait to book her back! I am super Thankful your online information was available and I will strongly reccomend your company to everyone I know that needs a Professional talented individual. Sincerely, Janie M. Edwards-Dixon Java Rocks! -Janie E, Kalispell, MT
R&B Vocalist
Oya and her band were so great to work with. Superb quality of singing and a wide variety of extremely talented instrument playing. The customizable music picked fit out style so perfectly. We still have people telling us how wonderful the band was months after our wedding. The Spirit of Oya took our wedding to another level; it was truly amazing. They created with memories that we will have forever.
Gospel Singer, Jazz Band, R&B Group, Wedding Band
Oya sang at my reception and truly made it a night to remember. Her voice is magical and amazing. What a treat it was to have her. She sang At Last by Etta James and So Amazing by Luther Vandross and she did such a fantastic job. We felt like we were at a concert! She is also EXTREMELY professional. She came dressed beautifully...she was early...she took the initiative to touch bases with my DJ a few days in advance...provided her own tracks...gave me suggestions...and most importantly worked within our budget. She is also a SUPER nice person who genuinely cares about her clients. I was moved to tears as she sang and my brother hopped up and joined in on the serenade which was very special to me. I definitely plan to her hire her for my next event. I can't thank her enough for helping to make our wedding reception AMAZING!! Highly...highly...highly...recommend her! She was the perfect finishing touch...
R&B Vocalist, Soul Singer
OMG.....Booking Oya was one of the best things I did for my wedding. ( I had to take charge of something)
We booked Oya as a trio: Oya,acoustic guitarist and the saxophonist and they were great. Oya sang me and my wife's 1st dance (Jennifer Hudson - Giving Myself) and she sang that song like there is no tomorrow. Oya looked and sounded beautiful and as a trio you guys work great together especially when you did So Amazing by Luther Vandross......Loved it!!
The feedback I got from my family was all positive. I wish you could have stayed to enjoy your time as well but....I understand that you had another gig to go to.
Bottom line is.....No one will be disappointed booking The Spirit of Oya!
Me and my wife truly thank you for everything.
Mr. & Mrs. Keyno Alvarez
R&B Vocalist, Soul Band, Wedding Singer
I hired Oya and her band for our wedding ceremony and reception. Oya's communication with me since a year prior to the wedding was absolutely outstanding! She was a beautiful singer and was the one person who also helped keep the day organised, offering to toastmaster the whole event from start to finish. I really appreciate Oya in so many ways, and I am so pleased that we hired her, as she made the day both memorable and beautiful.
You will have no reservations about hiring Oya and she will make any event outstanding!!!
Thank You
British bride - married in Las Vegas 2010
Jennifer
R&B Vocalist, Hip Hop Artist, Jazz Band, Pop Singer, R&B Group, Soul Band, Wedding Band, Wedding Singer
Oya Performance was excellent. Her voice is so beautiful and she has a beautiful spirit.She left a lasting impression that everyone is still talking about. If your looking for the best she is the one for you
R&B Vocalist, Gospel Singer, Motivational Speaker
For the bride and groom looking to entertain their guests with a sweet sounding, melodic voice, Spirit of Oya is the songstress for you! I've had the pleasure of witnessing Oya capture the attention of audiences by singing sultry lyrics as the bride walks down the aisle to meet her husband-to-be, as guests mingle during cocktail hour and even during receptions. She has the ability to gain the attention of the audience and demand them to tap their feet and bob their heads. Whether she's accompanied by one of her renown guitarist, trio, quartet or band, the Sprit of Oya has the right entertainment match for your event. If you're looking to enhance your event entertainment and give your guests something to remember you can count on the Sprit of Oya as a wonderful addition to your wedding day.
Wedding Singer
Oya was and is fantastic.
Oya was radiant and professional in everyway...she dazzled our audience and gave us great edu-tainment!
She is a giver and community minded....she was great!
Gospel Singer, Motivational Speaker, Soul Singer
If there is possibly a 6 stars rating, me and my wife would give it to her in a blink of an eye. Right from the beginning, there was a certain warmth and great over-all professionalism from Oya. And more than just a great voice, she is able to relate to the audience and to us as a couple in a very comfortable level(my friends and families were raving about her). She not only was a great performer on the event, but became a friend. If you want a CLASS A performer, there is no need to look around. She is the ONE. Good thing we did.
R&B Vocalist, Jazz Band, Wedding Band, Wedding Singer
First I would like to say I’m thankful for the ability that God has given you to connect with people. You're professionalism is outstanding. You knew what I needed to make our company 25th anniversary a success! The songs you sang with such powerful delivery filled the room with so much joy and inspiration! The positive words you spoke during your performance were heartfelt and your willingness to share others individual talent is just awesome. The President of the company is still getting wonderful feedback from her guest.
I hope I have the chance to have you come back to Michigan to do something else. You are truly a blessing.
R&B Vocalist, Gospel Singer, Leadership/Success Speaker
I discovered Oya's talent while listening to clips on her www.spiritofoya.com website.
After viewing her clips I knew that I had found the voice for the corporate event in San Francisco.
After speaking with her for a few minutes not only did I know she had the powerful voice we were looking for,
I also learned of her beautiful energy. I knew our audience of 500 + people would be in for a musical and inspirational treat. I was right! Oya sang beautifully and really got the energy going! The audience all stood up and joined in clapping and singing with her and the musicians. Oya is a beautiful entertainer and a very special person.
R&B Vocalist, Gospel Singer, Pop Singer, Soul Singer
Booking Info
Price Range: Contact for rates
Unions: SAG-AFTRA
About
Oya works with musicians and bands all over the nation for your event in your city including the following: California (including Bay Area), Las Vegas, Nevada, Georgia, Alabama, Chicago, Virginia to Jamaica
Oya Thomas has spent her life delighting in the freeing, connective force of music. The beginning of her musical and spiritual journey can be traced back to Oya’s earliest experiences – joyful impressions that have added a genuine playfulness to her work’s mantra even as she matures as an artist. At the age of three, deeply inspired and encouraged by her father and personal hero Ezekiel and his distinctive voice, she began to sing tirelessly, writing poems and stories on the spot and setting them to music. Her ability to express herself fluidly through song strengthened the bond between the members of her tight-knit family as they gathered around the piano to revel in her enduring enthusiasm and colorful world perspectives.
Because the church was always a pivotal force in her family’s life, she began to avidly share her gifts with her congregation all the while organically building a diverse musical foundation at home through the songs of beloved musical icons such as Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, Mahalia Jackson and Frank Sinatra. Her introduction to the early records of Whitney Houston fortified her commitment to becoming a mistress of her craft while drawing her closer to her own cultural and musical legacy. And the vibrant energy and skill of progressive artists like Prince helped cultivate her deep appreciation of a solid groove and increased her hunger for improvisation, which continues to drive her to explore every possible dimension of the instrument of voice. Oya’s vivacity still shines bright as she devours both fresh and familiar material with equal passion.
As Oya built her foundation through song, she developed a profound fascination for human psychology and the relationship between the body, mind and spirit, which characterizes the core principles of both her mentoring and her musical repertoire. Her on-going quest to make her life and work a continuous opportunity for learning and growth drove her to earn a B.A. in Psychology at LMU Loyola Marymount University and an M.A. in Spiritual Psychology at the University of Santa Monica, the country’s leading institution in this discipline. Her deep-seated need to explore the transformative power music has on the human mind and soul still flows in abundance through her songwriting, performance style and her central message: “Energizing through Music and Art.”
Oya reaches the highest level of fulfillment as a singer, actress, life coach and mentor by watching the way her voice can move and shape the world around her and leading others to find their own sublime bliss and emotional freedom in music. By combining her extensive spiritual and therapeutic training and her extremely multi-faceted artistic background, she has found an apt vehicle for her talents and is able to spread her light and love through one-on-one coaching as well as through her music and her commanding stage presence. Teresa Williams, organizer of Highland Community College’s annual Black History month celebration, who has invited Oya back to sing multiple times at the event summed up Oya’s multi-disciplinary approach perfectly: “The beauty of Oya is she is about education and community service and she wraps all of it into entertainment.”
Throughout HER career, she has performed, recorded and worked with a variety of talented musicians and artists, including Heavy D., Snoop Dogg, Sharee Brown, Patrice Rushen, Howard Hewett and Preston Glass as well as actors Robin Givens and Gabriel Casseus. Oya’s credits include writer and producer of the music featured in the promotional campaign for the film Joyful Noise, starring Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah and actress in season one and the upcoming season two of the series The Therapist. Renowned for her compelling performances in critically-acclaimed gospel plays nationwide, she has also regularly performed for organizations such as the Boys’ and Girls’ Club of America and the American Cancer Society.
In Oya’s words, “To feel is such a great experience in and of itself, and to be able to do it with something I have inside me, from the depth of my spirit is like a wonderful sharing that I cannot put into words. A smile, applause singing along, someone saying how good I made them feel makes everything worthwhile. These experiences are gratifying to me as an artist and performer and because I know I am helping someone else connect to their emotions in a positive way. I always said I wanted to use my talents to see God’s great earth, and so I am.”
With deep, immovable roots nourished by her father’s love and support as well as an innate fervor for growth as an artist and a human being, Oya continues to ignite her exceptional spark through her art.
Spirit of Oya is her debut solo album.
Services Offered
Past Booked Events
| March 14, 2015 • 9:30am - 11:30am | Funeral Service |
| August 30, 2014 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm | Birthday Party |
Influences & Inspiration
My Father, Whitney Houston, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin, Mahalia Jackson, Yolanda Adams, Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Etta James, Tina Turner, Gladys Knight, BB King, Celine Dion, Patti Labelle, Mariah Carey, Bob Marley, Audra McDonald, Teena Marie and Prince :)
Testimonials
I discovered Oya's talent while listening to clips on her SpiritofOya Website.
After viewing her clips I knew that I had found the voice for the corporate event in San Francisco. After
speaking with her for a few minutes not only did I know she had the powerful voice we were looking for I also learned of her beautiful energy. I knew our audience of 500 + people would be in for a musical and inspirational treat. I was right! Oya sang beautifully and really got the energy going! The audience all stood up and joined in clapping and singing with her and the musicians. Oya is a beautiful entertainer and a very special person.
– Steve R.
First I would like to say I’m thankful for the ability that God has given you to connect with people. You're professionalism is outstanding. You knew what I needed to make our company 25th anniversary a success! The songs you sang with such powerful delivery filled the room with so much joy and inspiration! The positive words you spoke during your performance were heartfelt and your willingness to share others individual talent is just awesome. The President of the company is still getting wonderful feedback from her guest.
I hope I have the chance to have you come back to Michigan to do something else. You are truly a blessing.
– Selina S.
Working with Oya was an experience I will always cherish. Not only is her voice captivating and powerful, but she is an intelligent, confident, funny, and postive woman. She is a phenominal artist with incredible work ethic. The emotion the she emits AND evokes while singing has a universal timelessness while her voice itself is very unique. I very much look forward to working with Oya again in the future. She has an amazing gift. My highest recommendations to anyone who wants to experience/share something extraoridinary.
– Emily P
If there is possibly a 6 stars rating, me and my wife would give it to her in a blink of an eye. Right from the beginning, there was a certain warmth and great over-all professionalism from Oya. And more than just a great voice, she is able to relate to the audience and to us as a couple in a very comfortable level(my friends and families were raving about her). She not only was a great performer on the event, but became a friend. If you want a CLASS A performer, there is no need to look around. She is the ONE. Good thing we did.
– Dennis B
From the moment I spoke to Oya on our first pre telephone interview, I knew that she would not only be an amazing asset to my party, but that she was very accommodating to what I wanted. Her performance was amazing, her voice is truly a gift from God, that lifted everyones spirits. I would use Oya again and reccomend her to others that want that special touch to any event. Thank you Oya you are wonderful!!
– Joanne
Oya, electrified the place! What a way to end a 27 year career! Imagine that it was just her! I am already planning on hiring her again soon and have her bring her band next time. My next event can't come fast enough!
Forever a Customer,
Ron R.
– Ron R.
Your performances far exceeded my expectations! Your beautiful, soulful, and strong voice is a gift from a higher power. When you sang you touched us deep in our hearts that we were all crying. Every single person asked who was that singer she is amazing!!! Everybody wanted to stand up and applaud you. I know that my brother could hear you from the heavens above. You did not disappoint me! Each note you sang was perfection. Thank you for recommending your pianist because he played so well and enriched your performance. You have a gift Oya, your voice is up there with the greats and not one note was out of tune. We will HIGHLY recommend you to ALL!
– Rosana U.
Hello Oya,
I would like to commend you and your band on an outstanding performance. You were fabulous and truly made our wedding day very special. Our guest are still complimenting you all. I would also like to send out a thank you to your duet partner for the talent that he brought to the evening.
Let us know when you're performing locally because we would love to attend.
Stay blessed,
Robert and Maribel
– Robert & Maribel
For the bride and groom looking to entertain their guests with a sweet sounding, melodic voice, Spirit of Oya is the songstress for you! I've had the pleasure of witnessing Oya capture the attention of audiences by singing sultry lyrics as the bride walks down the aisle to meet her husband-to-be, as guests mingle during cocktail hour and even during receptions. She has the ability to gain the attention of the audience and demand them to tap their feet and bob their heads. Whether she's accompanied by one of her renown guitarist, trio, quartet or band, the Sprit of Oya has the right entertainment match for your event. If you're looking to enhance your event entertainment and give your guests something to remember you can count on the Sprit of Oya as a wonderful addition to your wedding day.
– Events by Jem
Oya was very professional and very talented. Everyone is still raving about her. I would and will recommend Oya for any event. She was GREAT. Oya thank you sooooo much.
– Karen Fernandez
Oya,
You truly have an amazing voice.
You and your band did an excellent job capturing the
essence and personal musical choices of my clients.
I greatly appreciate your punctuality and professionalism.
You left the guests and the happy couple wanting more.
I wish you the best in all of your future endeavors.
– Neshelle
Wow, where do I begin? Oya provided the perfect musical element to my wedding ceremony. Given that my initial singer fell through, I first contacted her only a week prior to the event. She was traveling overseas at the time, but still promptly returned all of my emails and graciously agreed to perform. She was incredibly personable and spent a good deal of time getting to know me, learning about my relationship with my fiancee, and discussing my musical preference in an effort to identify the perfect song. In the end she actually customized the lyrics for a wonderful song that left all of our guests spellbound. Her voice is magnificent and she is a true professional.
– Paxton C.
Oya is punctual, precise, and has impressive work skills. She is dependable and always brings creativity, positive energy, and talent to the table.
She recently shared those talents for a national campaign event of ours called “Peace in the City”. It was hosted by the University of Southern California. Oya sang with me and Patrice Rushen who was our music director for the evening. It was a successful event and would not have been complete without Oya’s involvement.
– Sheree Brown
I hired Oya to sing at my mother's birthday party. We were all blown away. Her voice is so powerful and beautiful. It was such a heartfelt song and we were all moved. I wanted a special way to let my mom know how much I love her on the deepest level and Oya sang from the heart and touched my mother's and everyone's heart there. In addition, she is so professional and sweet. I would recommend her and hire her again anytime I need a singer.
– Phil
"Oya was a standout performer at my event! Her voice is so smooth and powerful at the same time. And her stage presence is second to none. The audience was really engaged and they raved about her for weeks to come. My event would have not been the same without this majestic and beautiful woman. I would love to work with her again and again!"
– Shelli