How It All Began
Omah Lay, born Stanley Omah Didia on May 19, 1997, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, is a prominent Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his unique blend of Afro-fusion, Afrobeats, and R&B. His rise to fame has been marked by soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and an instantly recognizable voice that resonates with fans across Africa and beyond.
Raised in a musical family, Omah Lay’s grandfather was a percussionist for the legendary Highlife singer Celestine Ukwu. His father also dabbled in music, playing instruments in local bands, which gave young Stanley early exposure to the world of rhythm and melody. Omah Lay began his musical journey as a producer under the name “Lil King,” creating beats and writing for local artists. However, he soon realized his potential as a singer and stepped into the spotlight.
His official debut came in February 2020 with the release of his self-produced single “Bad Influence,” a track that quickly went viral on social media and streaming platforms due to its raw emotional depth and laid-back Afro-fusion sound. The song captured widespread attention, leading to the release of his debut EP, Get Layd, in May 2020. The project featured hits like “Lo Lo,” “You,” and “Damn,” all of which solidified his position as a rising star in Nigeria's music scene.
The success of Get Layd brought Omah Lay both critical acclaim and commercial success. He was named Apple Music’s “Africa Rising” artist and received widespread praise for his lyrical vulnerability and genre-defying sound. His music, often centered around themes of love, loneliness, and personal struggle, resonated deeply with a generation of listeners navigating their own emotional journeys.
Bringing Happiness Through Sound.
In November 2020, Omah Lay followed up with his second EP, What Have We Done, which included the hit single “Godly.” The song topped multiple charts and reinforced his status as one of Africa’s most promising young talents. That same year, he was nominated for and won several awards, including the Next Rated Artist at The Headies Awards in 2021. Omah Lay’s international presence continued to grow, with collaborations alongside global artists such as Justin Bieber on the 2022 single “Attention.” The track showcased his versatility and helped introduce him to an even wider audience. In July 2022, he released his debut studio album, Boy Alone, a deeply personal project that reflected on fame, mental health, and emotional vulnerability. The album was lauded for its honesty and musical depth, cementing Omah Lay as more than just a pop act, but a true artist with depth and intention.
