Omah Lay Afrobeats Controversy ignites debate after singer claims Lagos scene favors Yorubas and non-Yoruba artists struggle to succeed
Nigerian singer Omah Lay has sparked controversy after asserting that the Afrobeats genre is largely dominated by Yorubas, making it difficult for artists from other ethnic groups to break into the Lagos music scene.
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Speaking at the listening party for his forthcoming album, Clarity Of Mind, Omah Lay said that coming from Port Harcourt meant working exceptionally hard to earn recognition in Lagos, a process he described as exhausting at times.
“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.
The singer added that he is now prioritising his family and fans over external validation from the Lagos or global music 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 stated.
Omah Lay’s remarks have triggered widespread discussion on social media, with fans and industry observers debating the challenges faced by non-Yoruba artists in establishing themselves in Lagos, the epicentre of Nigeria’s Afrobeats industry.
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The singer, who has gained international acclaim in recent years, continues to navigate the balance between mainstream recognition and staying connected to his home audience in Port Harcourt.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
