He claimed to have created a new sound that many afrobeat artistes are now incorporating into their music.
Omah Lay, a prominent figure in the Afrobeats scene, has voiced his concerns about his peers from Nigeria and beyond mimicking his musical style. In a recent interview with Billboard, Omah Lay highlighted how he believes his innovative approach to Afrobeats has been influential, yet many of afrobeat artistes are now replicating his sound.
“The artistes coming out from Nigeria right now, not just Nigeria but Afrobeat artistes in general are taking a bit of my stuff, the stuff I started, everybody tryna copy something,” Omah Lay stated. He expressed frustration over the perceived imitation of his unique style by other artists within the genre.
Further criticizing the current state of Afrobeats, Omah Lay accused some of the genre’s leading figures of diluting its essence in an effort to appeal to international audiences and increase revenue. He expressed discontent with the way the genre is evolving, particularly pointing out the increasing influence of the South African genre amapiano in Afrobeats clubs.
“I don’t think I am happy with what the pioneers of Afrobeats are doing right now. The front guys are watering it down by just chasing the bags. I can’t remember the last time I heard a proper Afrobeats song. It’s now Amapiano in Afrobeats clubs, not a proper Afrobeats song,” he lamented.
Omah Lay’s comments reflect a broader concern within the Afrobeats community about preserving the genre’s authenticity amidst its growing global popularity.
In a recent update, Omah Lay has revealed that his latest album, Clarity of Mind, is deeply personal and reflects a period of healing in his life. According to the artist, the album is a journey of self-discovery and recovery, capturing his experiences and growth over recent years. This introspective project marks a significant phase in his career, showing a more vulnerable and reflective side of the artist.
Additionally, Omah Lay has released the official music video for his track “Moving.” The video showcases his unique artistic style and continues to build on his reputation as a leading voice in Afrobeats. This release further underscores his commitment to creating impactful music that resonates with his audience while navigating the evolving landscape of the genre.
Omah Lay has also opened up about his feelings of being unloved despite the support from his family and fans. In a candid discussion, he admitted that despite the apparent success and support he receives, he often struggles with feelings of isolation and lack of genuine affection. This revelation adds a new layer to understanding the artist’s emotional landscape, highlighting the personal challenges he faces alongside his public achievements.
