Why it was hard for me to break into Afrobeats – Omah Lay

Nigerian singer Omah Lay has opened up about the challenges he faced while trying to establish himself in the country’s music industry, claiming that the Afrobeats genre is largely dominated by Lagos and Yoruba artists.

The Port Harcourt-born singer made the remark during the listening party for his forthcoming album, “Clarity of Mind.”

Speaking at the event, Omah Lay reflected on his early struggles in the industry and how his background influenced his journey to success.

According to the singer, the Afrobeats scene is heavily centered in Lagos, making it difficult for artists from other regions to break into the mainstream.

“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,” he said.

Omah Lay explained that coming from Port Harcourt meant he had to work harder to gain recognition within the Lagos-based music industry.

The singer admitted that the pressure to gain acceptance and recognition in the industry became exhausting at some point in his career.

However, he noted that he has reached a stage where he no longer seeks validation from the wider music industry.

According to him, his focus has shifted to the support he receives from his family and loyal fans.

“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 added.