Nigerian music sensation Stanley Omah Didia, better known by his stage name Omah Lay, has raised concerns about the current state of the Afrobeats genre.
The “Holy Ghost” hitmaker expressed worry that Afrobeats is being diluted to attract international audiences and is becoming overly commercialized. He lamented that the genre, which has rapidly risen in global popularity, is no longer in safe hands.
In a recent appearance on the Zach Sang Show, the singer and songwriter shared his concerns about the prevailing trend among Afrobeats artists, suggesting that the financial success associated with the genre is causing musicians to prioritize profit over artistic passion.
“There is too much money in Afrobeats. Afrobeats artists are just trying to grab the money,” he said.
“I believe people are messing Afrobeats up. I also believe it is becoming very commercial. Right now, I don’t believe Afrobeats is in safe hands,” Omah Lay added.
Recently, Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton sparked controversy by describing Afrobeats as “f*ckery,” claiming in an interview that the genre lacks substance and will eventually fade away
Banton lamented that Afrobeat, despite its African roots, has strayed from its potential to inspire meaningful change, deviating from the revolutionary spirit embodied by icons like Fela Kuti and Lucky Dube. He also accused Reggaeton of appropriating reggae elements without respecting its origins, noting that the genre has failed to honor the cultural significance of reggae music.
Reflecting on his experiences in Africa, Banton expressed disappointment that Afrobeat artists have not connected with reggae’s roots, instead aligning themselves with other influences. He emphasized that while Afrobeat and Reggaeton have gained global popularity, they lack the depth and soul necessary to resonate with the struggles faced by African nations.
