Nigerian singer Barry Jhay has opened up about fame, wealth and the impact of losing his father, revealing that he would choose financial security over celebrity status if given another chance at life.
The singer made the remarks while reflecting on his personal journey and the realities that came with growing up in a family where his late father had already established a name.
“Fame is dangerous. In my next life, I don’t want to have talent or be famous; I just want to be rich,” Barry Jhay said.
The singer also described himself as having been born a “nepo baby,” but said his circumstances changed dramatically following the death of his father.
“I was born a nepo baby, but my reality now is lapo after losing my dad. I am hustling like a lapo baby,” he added.
Barry Jhay’s comments point to the contrast between the privileges he associated with his upbringing and the financial realities he says he now faces. His reference to “lapo” reflects the popular Nigerian expression associated with the Loan and Savings company, which he used metaphorically to describe his current struggle and hustle.
Beyond his comments about fame and money, the singer also spoke about his father’s influence on his musical career.
“My father is my inspiration; he is the reason why I am into music,” he said.
Barry Jhay is the son of the late Fuji musician Ayinde Barrister, who was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Fuji music in Nigeria. His father’s musical legacy has remained an important part of the singer’s identity and career.
The singer’s latest comments offer a personal look at how fame and family legacy can exist alongside financial pressure and personal loss. Despite the challenges he described, Barry Jhay continues to pursue music while acknowledging the influence his father had on his decision to enter the industry.
