Omah Lay Criticizes Afrobeats Artists for Copying His Style
Afrobeats singer Omah Lay has spoken out about other artists copying his unique style. The Nigerian music star recently shared his thoughts in an interview with Billboard, where he claimed that many of his fellow artists in Nigeria and other countries are imitating the sound he pioneered in the Afrobeats genre.
Omah Lay expressed his belief that he created a new sound in Afrobeats, which he now sees being replicated by many artists. He said, “The artists coming out from Nigeria right now, not just Nigeria but Afrobeats in general are taking a bit of my stuff, the stuff I started, everybody trying to copy something.”
The singer also voiced his concerns about how Afrobeats is changing. He accused some artists of “watering down” the genre to appeal to international audiences and make more money. Omah Lay was particularly unhappy about the influence of the South African music style, Amapiano, which he feels is taking over Afrobeats clubs.
He said, “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.”
Omah Lay’s comments have sparked discussions among fans and artists about the current state of Afrobeats and the direction the genre is taking.
