Kenyan musicians still lag behind when it comes to the amount of money promoters are willing to pay for their services. Diamond Platnumz broke the internet when he revealed that he was paid $150,000 (Ksh19 million at the current exchange rate) to perform at the chaotic Furaha City Festival in Nairobi.
Interestingly, the East African powerhouse did not perform after pocketing the colossal amount. citing disorganisation from the organizers. So, how much are his counterparts in Kenya paid?
Bien Aime Baraza
Arguably one of the biggest names in Kenya, the breakout star from the all-boys band Sauti Sol earns $7,000 (Ksh900,000) for an exhilarating show. The charges cover his band members.
Nyashinski
Real name Nyamari Ongegu is the highest paid artist in Kenya and rightly so. Nyashinski has been consistently releasing chart-topping hits, making him a favorite among promoters. The Hayawani hitmaker earns $20,000 (Ksh2.6 million) tax inclusive for a one-hour show.
Otile Brown
Another big name in the local entertainment industry, who commands millions of views on YouTube, is Otile Brown. The R&B artist charges between $4,500 and $5,500 (Ksh580,000 to Ksh710,000) for performances. Otile, whose real name is Jacob Obunga, is also paid between Ksh150,000 and Ksh200,000 for 45-minute club appearances.
Prince Indah
Evans Ochieng Owino, popularly known as Prince Indah, is one of the most bankable Ohangla musicians. To hire the singer with his Malaika Ohangla Rhumba Band (MOR), you have to be ready to part with upwards of Ksh400,000.
Samidoh
The Mugithi maestro commands a near-cult following. Beyond Kenya, Samidoh has performed in well-attended shows in the US and Dubai. Locally, he charges between Ksh200,000 to Ksh300,000.
Nadia Mukami
From Radio Love to Si Rahisi and many other back-to-back hits, Nadia has remained a force to reckon with in the Kenyan entertainment scene. The vocal goddess charges between Ksh300,000-Ksh400,000.
Willy Paul
The artist earnings and popularity have grown, with reports suggesting that his performance fees have risen significantly, from Ksh250,000 six years ago to as much as Ksh500,000 now.
