Nigerian singer Omah Lay has ignited a discussion after asserting that the Afrobeats genre is predominantly for Yorubas, and that individuals from other ethnic groups face considerable challenges in breaking into the Lagos music scene.
Omah Lay recounted that, coming from Port Harcourt, he had to exert significant effort to establish himself in the Lagos music industry, a process he described as exhausting at times.
Speaking at the listening party for his upcoming album, ‘Clarity Of Mind,’ the singer explained that he has reached a point where he no longer seeks validation from either the Lagos or global music industry. He expressed contentment with the affection he receives from his fans and family.
“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.
“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.
