Omah Lay Biography

Basic Info

Full Name: Stanley Omah Didia

Stage Name: Omah Lay

Country: Nigeria

Birth Date

Date of Birth: May 19, 1997

Biography, Career, and more

Omah Stanley Didia (born 19 May 1997), professionally known as Omah Lay, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer celebrated for his soulful sound and emotionally rich storytelling. He gained widespread recognition with his breakout singles “Bad Influence”, “Godly”, “Understand”, “Attention”, and “Soso”, becoming one of Africa’s most influential new-generation artists. His unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B and highlife has earned him major awards, including multiple wins at The Headies.

In 2022, Omah Lay released his debut studio album Boy Alone, followed by a deluxe edition in 2023. The project received critical acclaim for its vulnerability, innovation and sonic depth. He also launched his own music company, Boy Alone, expanding his brand and creative influence in the global music space.

Early Life

Born and raised in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Omah Lay grew up surrounded by music. He attended Comprehensive High School, Port Harcourt, before gaining admission into the University of Port Harcourt. Coming from a musically inclined family, he inherited his love for music—his grandfather was an instrumentalist for legendary highlife musician Celestine Ukwu, while his father was also a drummer. This deep musical background shaped his sound and artistic direction from an early age.

Career

Early Career: From Rapper to Producer

Omah Lay first stepped into the music scene as a teenage rapper under the name “Lil Street King.” By 16, he transitioned into songwriting and production, crafting hits for several artists in Port Harcourt. His skills quickly grew, but he craved a deeper personal connection with music—leading him to start releasing his own songs.

In 2019, he released “Do Not Disturb” and “Hello Brother,” which earned him early attention. That same year, he signed to the KeyQaad record label and began crafting his debut EP, Get Layd, fully immersing himself in studio work to refine his signature sound.

Breakthrough: Get Layd & Global Recognition

2020 marked Omah Lay’s major breakthrough. His singles “Bad Influence” and “You” became viral sensations. “Bad Influence” became the most streamed Nigerian song on Apple Music in 2020, while Get Layd topped the Nigerian Apple Music charts. All five tracks from the EP ranked within the top 15 nationwide, cementing him as the continent’s next big star.

He also delivered a standout feature on Olamide’s “Infinity,” which dominated charts and expanded his international audience.

In July 2020, he made history as the first artist highlighted in Apple’s Africa Rising campaign. Throughout the year, he gained more global recognition, appearing on BBC Radio 1Xtra’s “Hot for 2021,” becoming Audiomack’s #UpNow artist, landing on Montreux Jazz Festival’s “20 Artists to Watch,” and earning the BET Amplified Artist spotlight.

At the 2020 Headies Awards, he secured the prestigious Next Rated award.

Awards & Achievements

• Headies Next Rated Award — 2020
• Headies Awards Winner — 2023
• First artist selected for Apple’s Africa Rising Campaign
• BET Amplified International Artist of the Month
• Featured on global platforms including BBC 1Xtra, Audiomack, Montreux Jazz Festival

Conclusion

Omah Lay continues to redefine the African music landscape with his raw emotional expression and boundary-breaking melodies. With a growing global fanbase, a critically acclaimed album, and his Boy Alone music brand, he stands as one of Nigeria’s most impactful young icons shaping the future of Afrobeats.

Net Worth

Estimated Net Worth: $11 million