Nigerian singer Omah Lay has stirred reactions after stating that the Afrobeats genre is largely dominated by Yorubas, adding that artists from other ethnic backgrounds often face challenges breaking into the Lagos music scene.
The singer explained that as someone from Port Harcourt, he had to put in significant effort to secure recognition within the Lagos-based music industry, a process he described as draining at times.
Speaking during the listening party for his upcoming album, Clarity Of Mind, Omah Lay said he has now reached a stage in his career where he no longer seeks validation from either the Lagos or international music industry. Instead, he said he is satisfied with the support 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.