Omah Lay shares struggles breaking into Lagos-centric Afrobeats industry and highlights support from family and loyal fans
Nigerian singer Omah Lay has opened up about the difficulties he faced establishing himself in the country’s music industry, highlighting how the Afrobeats genre is heavily dominated by Lagos-based and Yoruba artists.
Also read: Omah Lay criticises Lagos dominance in Afrobeats
The Port Harcourt-born singer made the comments during the listening party for his forthcoming album, Clarity of Mind, reflecting on his early struggles and how his background influenced his journey to success.
“Afrobeats is mainly Lagos. It is mainly Yorubas. Fela Kuti is the pioneer, we all know that and he is Yoruba. I am from Port Harcourt and you have to break into Lagos. There are only two people from PH that you know; Burna Boy and me,” Omah Lay said, explaining the regional barriers faced by artists outside Lagos.
The singer admitted that the pressure to gain acceptance in the Lagos-centric music scene was exhausting. However, he emphasised that his focus has shifted away from seeking validation from the wider industry.
“It got to a point I am like, you know what? I am going to take my time and look at my family and fans; people who really love me, I am going to stay there. The rest of you, the rest of the world, don’t love me. F**k off. That is it,” he said.
Also read: Omah Lay claims afrobeats favors Yorubas, sparks debate
Omah Lay’s reflections provide insight into the challenges artists from outside Lagos face in Nigeria’s music industry and highlight the importance of familial and fan support in sustaining a successful career.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
