Nigeria Omah Lay: Afrobeats is Losing Its Essence Amid Commercialization

Nigerian singer Omah Lay expressed concerns about the commercialization of Afrobeats, stating the genre is no longer in "safe hands." He emphasizes the need for deeper lyrical content to preserve the essence of Afrobeats, contrasting it with impactful genres like hip-hop.

Nigerian singer Omah Lay has voiced his concerns regarding the current state of Afrobeats, stating that the genre is no longer in “safe hands.” During a recent appearance on the Zach Sang Show, he criticized the commercialization of Afrobeats, suggesting that the focus on profit has overshadowed artistic integrity.

Omah Lay emphasized the need for artists to enrich their lyrics, arguing that the essence of Afrobeats is being diluted. He remarked, “Afrobeats is one of the most relevant genres in the world, but I believe people are messing it up.” He acknowledged the desire for global recognition but lamented that the emphasis on financial gain is detracting from the genre's authenticity.

He pointed out that while Afrobeats artists are striving for success, there is a noticeable absence of depth in the music being produced. “To make Afrobeats pure again, we need to give it essence and life,” he said, contrasting the genre with impactful music from hip-hop legends like 2Pac, whose lyrics resonate with listeners' experiences.

Omah Lay's comments come on the heels of similar sentiments expressed by Jamaican artist Buju Banton, who also criticized Afrobeats for lacking depth and failing to address the continent's struggles. As the genre continues to evolve, Omah Lay’s call for a return to meaningful content serves as a reminder of Afrobeats' roots in storytelling and cultural expression.