Nigerian singer Lekan Osifeso Junior, popularly known as Lojay, has shared his perspective on the challenges faced by artists from wealthy backgrounds in the country’s music industry. In a recent interview with City 105.1 FM, Lagos, the Monalisa hitmaker argued that wealth does not provide an advantage in Nigeria’s music scene, despite popular belief.

Lojay claimed that Nigerians tend to “rich-shame,” which he described as skepticism or ridicule aimed at wealthy individuals trying to break into the industry. According to him, artists from affluent backgrounds often face more scrutiny and criticism, as people assume their financial status exempts them from needing support or struggling to succeed.

“Nigerians like rich-shaming,” Lojay stated. “It’s not just in music; it’s a general mindset. People think rich kids have an edge, but it’s actually the opposite. Entering the music industry as a rich kid can be like starting on the back foot because people assume you don’t deserve their support.”

When asked if he personally experienced such criticism, Lojay responded confidently, asserting that his talent speaks for itself. “I’m undeniably talented. They can’t try that with me. Let them challenge me on the mic,” he said, emphasizing that his music career has not been influenced by his family’s wealth.

He also added that he never relied on “payola,” or paid promotions, to boost his music’s reach, nor did his family’s wealth play a role in advancing his career. Instead, Lojay believes his background has, if anything, created an additional hurdle in an industry that often values the struggle and hustle stories of self-made artists.