Can Music Alone Fund a Lavish Life? Mr Eazi’s Tweet Ignites Nigerian Industry Debate

Nigerian Afrobeats star Mr Eazi recently sparked controversy with a tweet humorously questioning if music earnings could cover his extravagant wedding to billionaire heiress Temi Otedola. Responding to a fan’s joke about recouping costs via a new single, Eazi quipped it wouldn’t suffice, highlighting broader challenges in artist income sustainability.

The Nigerian music scene, fueled by Afrobeats’ global boom, saw exports grow 49% in 2024, with Spotify payouts reaching $59 million to local artists. Yet, revenue disparities persist: Nigerian creators earn roughly $400 per million local streams, far below international rates, due to low per-stream royalties and piracy. Africa’s recorded music revenue surged 22% to over $100 million in 2024, but much doesn’t flow back home, benefiting global platforms instead.

Mid-tier artists like Eazi often rely on endorsements and ventures, as fan replies noted top stars like Wizkid and Davido thrive while others struggle. Copyright issues and uneven monetization exacerbate inequality. As Afrobeats evolves, diversifying income and policy reforms could ensure more equitable earnings.