Ghanaian reggae-dancehall artist Shatta Wale has claimed that he earns as much as $1 million for performances in Ghana, insisting that the respect and support he receives in the country have made him financially comfortable over the years.
Speaking in an interview with Nigerian pop culture personality Adesope Olajide, popularly known as Adesope, the musician said Ghana has played a major role in his success and wealth.
“I’ve always seen myself as this international star,” Shatta Wale said. “If I tell you I can get paid $1 million in Ghana, you will go like, how? But Ghana is a beautiful place where people understand the music culture.”
According to him, his success in Ghana goes beyond music streams and performances, stressing that the level of respect he receives from political figures, event organisers and influential personalities contributes heavily to his brand value.
“The respect I have from political parties, ministers and organisers is crazy for me in Ghana,” he stated. “Anybody that calls me in Ghana gives me the respect they’ll give to Jay-Z and Beyoncé.”
The dancehall artiste explained that promoters in Ghana invest heavily in his shows, which pushes him and his team to deliver high-quality performances in return.
“Anything I need for my shows is done properly,” he said. “We spend so much because the promoters also pay so much, so we make sure we give them what they deserve.”
Shatta Wale also disclosed why he often turns down performance offers from Europe and the United Kingdom, saying the fees offered abroad do not match the standards he enjoys in Ghana.
“When somebody calls me to London and says they want to give me £20,000 or £30,000, I tell them to use that money for another artiste,” he said.
He added that the current economic situation in Europe and the West may also be affecting event organisers and their budgets.
“I’ll be honest with you, things are tough in Europe and the West right now,” he noted. “When things are okay, then you come and call me.”
The musician further stated that he has maintained a luxurious lifestyle for over a decade through earnings made largely in Ghana, comparing his spending habits to international rap stars he admires, including Lil Baby and Lil Durk.
