Top 10 Highest-Paid Artists by Show in East Africa

The East African entertainment industry continues to thrive, with top artists commanding impressive fees for their performances across the region. From Tanzania’s Bongo Flava sensations to Kenya’s award-winning vocalists, these artists have built brands that translate into substantial performance fees.

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Here’s our ranking of the ten highest-paid artists by show in East Africa:

1. Diamond Platnumz – $70,000

Tanzania’s Diamond Platnumz remains the undisputed king of East African entertainment, commanding a staggering $70,000 for international shows and $50,000 for domestic performances. The WCB Wasafi founder requires event organizers to cover private jet expenses in addition to his performance fees. With over 1 billion YouTube views, Diamond’s brand has transcended East Africa to achieve global recognition.

2. Bien-Aimé Baraza – $6,500

The Sauti Sol vocalist has established himself as one of Kenya’s most sought-after solo performers since the band’s indefinite hiatus. Bien commands approximately $6,500 per show, making him the second most expensive artist in Kenya. Event organizers note that his live band performances justify the premium pricing, with his “Mbwembwe” hit solidifying his position in the market.

3. Rayvanny – $5,000

The Next Level Music CEO and former WCB Wasafi artist has carved out his own successful path in the Tanzanian music scene. Rayvanny, known for his Bongo Flava hits and dynamic stage presence, charges an estimated $5,000 per show. His performance at the CHAN PAMOJA 2024 opening ceremony showcased his ability to command massive audiences.

4. Sauti Sol – $40,000

When performing together, the legendary Kenyan band commands a minimum of $40,000 per show, though recent reports suggest this figure could exceed $100,000 given their hiatus status and the rarity of their performances. The group, consisting of Bien-Aimé Baraza, Savara Mudigi, Willis Chimano, and Polycarp Otieno, has an estimated net worth of $20 million.

5. Zuchu – $30,000

The WCB Wasafi signee and daughter of legendary taarab musician Khadija Kopa has become one of East Africa’s most expensive female artists. Zuchu commands a minimum of $30,000 for shows outside Tanzania, a fee that has reportedly increased in recent years. Her performance at the CHAN 2024 closing ceremony demonstrated her star power across the region.

6. Nyashinski – $20,000

Kenya’s most expensive solo artist, Nyashinski charges $20,000 per show. The former Kleptomaniax member made a triumphant return to the music scene in 2016 and has since become synonymous with premium live band performances. His hits like “Malaika” and “Bebi Bebi” have garnered millions of views on YouTube.

7. Harmonize – $15,000

The Konde Music Worldwide boss charges an estimated $15,000 per show, establishing himself as one of Tanzania’s top-earning artists since leaving Diamond Platnumz’s WCB Wasafi label. His successful albums “Afro-East” and “High School” have featured collaborations with major African artists including Naira Marley, Sarkodie, and Burna Boy.

8. Khaligraph Jones – $4,500

Papa Jones, as he’s affectionately known, charges $4,500 for an hour’s performance at corporate events, though this rate can be negotiated depending on the venue and occasion. The award-winning rapper is one of Kenya’s most successful hip-hop artists, with hits like “Mazishi” and “Yego” cementing his position in the industry.

9. Otile Brown – $4,500

The Kenyan R&B sensation matches Khaligraph Jones’ rate at $4,500 per hour for corporate performances, though his fees can range from $4,500 to $7,000 depending on the event. Born in Kisumu and raised in Mombasa, Otile Brown has consistently delivered hits and collaborations with top East African artists.

10. Nadia Mukami – $3,500

Kenya’s most sought-after female artist charges between $3,000 and $4,000 per show, with an average of $3,500. The Maseno University graduate and founder of Sevens Creative Hub broke into mainstream success with her hit song “Kesi” and has since collaborated with major artists including Khaligraph Jones and Otile Brown.

Honorable Mentions

Other notable East African artists with substantial booking fees include Savara Mudigi ($2,000-$5,000), Bensoul and Nviiri The Story Teller ($4,500 as a package), Prince Indah ($3,360), and Samidoh ($2,000-$2,500).

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