Nigerian-born DJ MayZ has described Kenya as “Africa’s New York”, citing Nairobi’s entertainment scene and its appeal to performers seeking opportunities beyond their home markets.
MayZ, whose full name is Okedairo J Mayowa, relocated to Nairobi after developing his career in Nigeria and travelling across different African countries.
In an interview published on November 5, the DJ spoke about establishing himself in Kenya and adapting to an entertainment industry that has its own networks, audiences and competitive pressures.
His remarks also touch on an ongoing debate within Kenya’s entertainment industry, where some local performers have raised concerns about the opportunities available to foreign entertainers compared with home-grown talent.
MayZ, however, views Nairobi as a welcoming market where building a successful career still requires persistence and the ability to understand the local scene.
His experience reflects the movement of entertainers across African markets as artists and DJs seek wider audiences, new bookings and opportunities to grow their brands.
Nairobi’s position as a regional entertainment hub has continued to attract performers from across the continent, adding to the city’s increasingly diverse music and nightlife scene.
