Bella Shmurda Reveals Why Nigerian Artists Charge Big Fees and Avoid Wearing the Same Outfit Twice

When you think being a music star is all glitz and easy money, think again. Singer Bella Shmurda has pulled back the curtain on the pricey realities of fame, explaining why Nigerian artists often charge jaw-dropping fees for performances — and why he never wears the same outfit twice.

In a recent interview, the artist got candid about the financial side of the music business. According to him, it’s not all about living large — it’s about survival in a high-cost industry where creativity doesn’t come cheap. From production costs to promotions and maintaining an appealing public image, everything adds up fast.

Bella broke down the math behind making an album, revealing that he spent around $100,000 (over ₦100 million) just to pay producers, songwriters, and sound engineers — and that’s before shooting any music videos or promoting his songs on radio, TV, and streaming platforms.

“Making this album, just paying producers alone cost about $100,000,” Bella explained. “Then I still have to shoot videos, promote the songs on radio, TV, and platforms — that’s a lot. So if I go for one show and I don’t charge, what’s the benefit for me in the long run? We’re not overcharging; people just don’t see the cost behind the music.”

He went on to clarify that high performance fees aren’t about greed or showing off. Instead, they’re part of the reality of balancing massive production expenses with the need to stay relevant and profitable. For many artists, every performance fee goes toward keeping their brand alive in a fiercely competitive industry.

As for his style choices, Bella admitted he doesn’t wear the same outfit twice — not out of vanity, but because public figures are constantly under the microscope. “As an artist, you have to maintain a certain image. People expect you to look fresh every time, and that’s part of the business,” he said.

In an industry where perception can be as valuable as talent, Bella’s explanation offers a glimpse into the pressure artists face to stay polished and prosperous. It’s not just about making music — it’s about making it look effortless, even when it costs a fortune.

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