Afrobeats singer Omah Lay has shared his concerns about what he described as the Lagos-centric structure of the Afrobeats industry.
The artist made the remarks during a listening party for his forthcoming album, Clarity Of Mind, where he spoke about the challenges musicians from outside Lagos face while trying to gain recognition in the Nigerian music scene.
According to Omah Lay, the industry is largely concentrated in Lagos and heavily influenced by the Yoruba cultural base that shaped its early development.
He acknowledged the influence of Afrobeats pioneer Fela Kuti, noting that the legendary musician’s Yoruba heritage played a significant role in shaping the genre’s roots.
However, the singer said artists from other regions, including his hometown of Port Harcourt, often have to work harder to break into the Lagos-based industry.
Omah Lay pointed out that only a few artists from Port Harcourt have achieved widespread recognition in the Lagos music scene, mentioning himself and fellow Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy as examples.
“Afrobeats is mainly Lagos. It is mainly Yorubas. Fela Kuti is the pioneer, we all know that and he is Yoruba,” he said.
Reflecting on his career, the singer explained that he has gradually shifted his focus away from seeking approval from the broader music industry.
Instead, he said he intends to concentrate on the people closest to him and the fans who genuinely support his music.
“It got to a point I said I’m going to take my time and focus on my family and the fans who really love me,” he said.
Omah Lay added that he is no longer concerned about gaining validation from the wider global or Lagos music establishment as he continues to develop his career.
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