Omah Lay: Nigerian artists abandoning musical depth for quick money
Singer Omah Lay claims Nigerian artists are no longer putting effort into music-making, prioritizing quick money and fame over musical depth and lyrical substance. In an interview published today with ViewsFrance, the 'Soso' hitmaker says this trend is damaging Afrobeats and African culture internationally. He urges colleagues to improve their craft for the next generation, acknowledging Afrobeats' global rise is positive but warning the quality bar must be raised.
This matters because Afrobeats is Nigeria's biggest cultural export. If artists chase viral hits over lasting artistry, the genre risks losing the distinctive sound and depth that made it globally appealing. Overseas audiences may develop shallow expectations, and emerging Nigerian artists could copy the quick-profit model instead of building sustainable careers. The streaming era rewards hit singles, shifting focus from album projects to short-term virality. Some argue this matches changing listener habits—short attention spans favor catchy, repetitive tracks. Others note Afrobeats' dancehall roots already prioritize vibe over complex lyrics. Is Omah Lay romanticizing older music, or is there valid concern about artistic erosion? What responsibility do artists have to balance commercial success with cultural preservation?
When you stream or share music, does artistic depth influence your choice, or are catchy beats enough?