Why Nigerian Musicians Demand Huge Fees For Performances As Bella Shmurda Lifts Lid On Hidden Costs Behind The Glamour

 

Singer Bella Shmurda has shed light on one of the most debated issues in the Nigerian entertainment industry: the high cost of booking popular musicians for shows and events. Speaking candidly during an interview with Naija FM Lagos, the singer known for his streetwise anthems and distinct voice provided rare insight into the financial pressures that drive Nigerian artists to demand hefty performance fees.

The conversation, which has since sparked discussions across social media, reveals how the glittering lifestyle often associated with entertainers hides layers of serious financial commitment, relentless spending, and constant reinvestment. Bella Shmurda emphasized that many people underestimate the true cost of maintaining a successful music career in Nigeria.

He explained that an artiste’s fee is not merely a reflection of greed or fame but a necessary calculation tied to the extensive expenses involved in producing music, paying team members, and sustaining a public image. According to him, a large portion of what fans perceive as “performance money” is actually distributed among several people working tirelessly behind the scenes. These include producers, songwriters, sound engineers, managers, stylists, and other professionals whose input is critical to an artiste’s success.

The singer pointed out that the creative process itself consumes vast resources long before a song even reaches the public. Studio time, sound mixing, mastering, and equipment maintenance all require substantial financial outlay. For Bella Shmurda, this makes it impossible to charge low performance fees without running at a loss.

 

“Speaking from the perspective of an artiste, making music is expensive. I don’t repeat clothes because I’m a public figure. I spent $100,000 to pay producers, songwriters and engineers that worked on my album. That’s over N100 million. Not to mention music videos and promotion costs. That’s a lot,” he revealed during the interview.

Bella’s statement provides a window into the economic realities of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving music industry. Behind every hit song or sold-out concert lies a web of costs that must be covered before an artiste can even think of profit. The industry has become one of Nigeria’s biggest exports, with global stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido commanding massive fees for international shows. However, as Bella Shmurda points out, those large paychecks are often the only way for artistes to stay afloat in an industry where every step demands investment.

Promotion alone can drain an artist’s finances. Music videos, marketing campaigns, digital distribution, and influencer partnerships all require money. Bella mentioned that promotion is sometimes more expensive than production itself. To ensure visibility in a crowded market, artists often spend millions of naira to secure media spots, playlist placements, and digital reach across various platforms. These costs, combined with the expectation to maintain a fashionable public image, drive many musicians to keep their performance rates high.

He further clarified that charging high performance fees is not about flaunting wealth or taking advantage of promoters. Rather, it is a matter of survival and sustainability. “So, I go for a show, I would charge what would equate my investments. Even if I don’t make profit, I should at least be able to recover the cost of production. So, we are not overcharging. If you look at it from our own perspective, you will agree that we are not overcharging,” he said.

Bella’s explanation resonates with many in the industry who face similar challenges. Upcoming artists often struggle to balance creative ambition with financial reality. Many spend years investing heavily in their craft before breaking even. This economic pressure pushes them to adopt the same pricing model as established acts once they achieve recognition.

The singer’s revelations also shed light on the hidden ecosystem that keeps the entertainment sector running. Beyond the artistes on stage are hundreds of professionals who depend on music projects for their livelihood. From producers and photographers to dancers, video directors, and stylists, the creative economy involves a chain of people who must be paid. Without substantial performance fees, artists would find it difficult to support their teams and sustain the quality their audiences expect.

As the Nigerian music industry continues to expand globally, the expectations placed on artists grow heavier. Fans want flawless performances, high-quality visuals, and consistent social media presence. Each of these demands comes with a cost. The reality, as Bella Shmurda emphasized, is that the modern artist operates like a small company, employing multiple individuals and managing countless expenses.

His comments have reignited conversations about fairness and understanding in the entertainment business. While fans may see luxury cars, designer outfits, and glamorous lifestyles, few recognize the financial discipline required to maintain them. Bella’s perspective encourages audiences to look beyond appearances and appreciate the complex structure that sustains the music they love.

Ultimately, the singer’s remarks highlight a simple truth: artistry in today’s world is as much a business as it is a passion. The vibrant sounds and thrilling performances that shape Nigerian pop culture are built on massive financial commitments. By explaining the reasons behind high performance fees, Bella Shmurda has given fans and event organizers a clearer understanding of the true cost of music.

His words serve as both a defense and an eye-opener, reminding everyone that behind every star-studded concert and chart-topping song lies a story of investment, dedication, and relentless work. For Bella Shmurda and many others, charging high fees is not exploitation; it is a reflection of the price of excellence.