Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, has stirred conversation in the entertainment industry after revealing that he often declines performance offers from the United Kingdom, insisting that shows in Ghana are far more lucrative.
Speaking in an interview with Nigerian media personality Adesope Olajide, the outspoken musician claimed that he can earn as much as $1 million for performances within Ghana, crediting his financial success to the strong local support he enjoys.
“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 brand value in Ghana is boosted not only by music consumption and show bookings, but also by the influence and recognition he receives from high-profile figures.
“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.”
He further explained that event promoters in Ghana invest significantly in his productions, enabling him and his team to deliver premium stage performances.
“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 revealed why he frequently turns down performance invitations from Europe and the UK, arguing that the financial packages offered do not meet his expectations.
“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 current economic conditions in Western countries may be affecting entertainment budgets and promoter spending power.
“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 artiste further said he has sustained a luxurious lifestyle for over a decade, largely from earnings in Ghana, comparing his financial standing to that of international rap stars he admires, including Lil Baby and Lil Durk.
