Ciryl

Samuel “Ciryl” O’Banner is a producer, lyricist, and vocalist specializing in all aspects of the music genre. With his unparalleled ear pleasing sounds, Ciryl is on a mission to revolutionize the music industry. “Ciryl” is the word “lyric” spelled backwards. The name was selected because the pronunciation “surreal” means unimaginable or dream like, the way he envisions his future.

BACKGROUND
While born in Chicago, Illinois, Ciryl developed his musical talents at his church in Tacoma, Washington where he played the drums for seven years. At the age of fourteen, he and some friends coordinated T.R.U.E. (Teaching Righteous Unity Everywhere), a gospel rap group that ministered musically at churches and community events across the city. From this experience Ciryl developed his craft and realized that his calling was to minister in music. Ciryl now resides in Orlando, FL and travels internationally reaching the multitudes with the message of Jesus Christ.

PROJECTS
Ciryl has released five albums: Ready to Live, I’m Still Here, Legacy, Legacy Continued, and I’ve Been Changed. December 21, 2005 marked the release of his debut album Ready to Live. The album title is a complete contrast to the Notorious B.I.G.’s debut album Ready to Die. The lyrical content, diversity, and musical composition make Ready to Live the complete package. On October 29, 2006 Ciryl released I’m Still Here which includes the hit singles “Free” featuring Natalie, and “I’m Fresh”. Ciryl’s Legacy album was released on November 18, 2007 and featured the anthem “Fight or Die” and “What R U Sayin’?” a message to secular rap artists.

Legacy Continued, released June 13, 2009, features the song “Long Road” which speaks of Ciryl’s testimony of where God brought him from, his continual sustainment, and where he is being elevated to. The anthem “Life I Live” speaks of Christians not just carrying the title but living the life. “No More” featuring Papa San is an infusion of Reggae, Rap, and Rock that captures you and depicts Christians taking a stand against immorality, violence, and poverty. On July 4th 2011 Ciryl released his very first music video for the song ‘Beat on the Drums’. This electrifying track is the first single from his brand new album ‘I’ve Been Changed’ which was released on September 3rd, 2011. The second single from the album ‘Heal Me’ is an extremely passionate and transparent song where Ciryl shares his most intimate thoughts.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• Produced the track and performed with world renowned gospel reggae artist Papa San on the song “No More” on Papa San’s 2009 release Higher Heights. Ciryl’s first international release which is also featured on Ciryl’s Legacy Continued album. • Performed at the world famous “Amateur Night at the Apollo” talent search competition.
• Has been the opening act for Yolanda Adams.
• Black Music Channel’s hip hop competition grand prize winner.
• Has been nominated for South Florida Gospel Music Awards for Hip-Hop artist of the Year.
• Ranked in the top 10 for Gospel Rap in Gospel Now Magazine