Nigerian Afrobeats star Omah Lay has stirred conversation within the music scene after asserting that the industry is deeply divided along loyalty lines tied to two of its biggest figures Davido and Wizkid.
In a recent interview with American outlet The Fader, the “Soso” crooner described the Afrobeats landscape as fragmented, with artists and stakeholders often aligning themselves with either camp.
“The whole Nigerian Afrobeats scene is very separated. It’s like if you’re with Davido, you’re on one side; if you’re with Wizkid, you’re on the other,” he said.
Omah Lay also revealed that in 2024, he made a personal decision to distance himself from the genre’s leading figures Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido collectively known as the Afrobeats “Big 3.” According to him, the move stemmed from dissatisfaction with the direction and leadership style shaping the industry.
“I felt like they started something with Afrobeats that we needed, but it became an old pattern,” he explained.
Despite his earlier stance, the singer spoke positively about his relationship with Davido, noting that their collaboration on “With You” came together organically. He described the experience as one that made him appreciate Davido’s personality even more.
Omah Lay further defended the DMW boss, suggesting that his background often attracts criticism. He argued that Davido, who hails from a wealthy family, faces undue scrutiny despite his achievements.
“He has nothing to prove to anybody,” Omah Lay added, pointing to Davido’s relentless drive and work ethic as qualities that continue to set him apart in the competitive Afrobeats scene.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
No comments:
Post a Comment