Tanzanian Bongo superstar Diamond Platnumz has revealed that he spent more than Sh450 million on recording one music video in the United States of America.
Diamond made the remarks on April 11, 2024 during the launch of ‘Bite Vibes’, a festival organized by Serengeti breweries in Dar es Salaam.
Speaking during the event, the Tanzanian Bongo superstar emphasized the need for substantial financial backing in achieving success in the music industry globally.
“Unfortunately, international songs are very expensive. I was shooting a video in the US recently, which cost around $190,000. So, when you mention $190,000 and you haven’t slept or traveled, you are talking about more than Sh500 million. So, the market there does not tolerate frugality,” he said.
The Tanzanian artist gained popularity after releasing hits such as ‘mapozi’, ‘shu’, ‘my baby’ and ‘yatapita’.
Over the years, Diamond has had international collabos including ‘marry you’ with Neyo, ‘African beauty’ featuring Omarion, ‘Waka’ with Rick Ross and ‘Hallelujah’ featuring the Morgan Heritage.
Meanwhile, he disclosed that he has recorded several videos in different parts of the world including South Africa, United States, Nigeria, Britain among other countries.
In addition, he noted that he has millions of subscribers on his Youtube channels that earns him millions of money.
However, he particularly noted that a collabo he had with Nigerian superstar Davido in the song ‘Number One Remix’ transformed his music career.
“Davido is like family; in one way or another, if we don’t acknowledge his contribution, because everyone has their part in someone’s life. I made a song with him, the ‘my number one’ remix but honestly it had a significant impact,” said the WCB boss.
He also urged fellow musicians to invest in the media industry, citing his Wasafi and Alikiba’s Crown Media as some of the brands that are performing well in society.
At the same time, he encouraged other upcoming artists to view music as an investment and a way of changing lives in communities.
“I advise artists that if one has the opportunity to open a media outlet, they should go for it. We, as artistes of our generation, need to change our perspective,” he said.
“Not only in the media but also in various businesses, this is our time; we must utilize it and leave a mark,” he added.
