In the ever-evolving music scene, Zambian artists are making waves not just with their talent but also with their rising booking fees. Recently, DJ Kandeke stirred up discussions when he revealed that it would now cost a hefty 255,000 Zambian Kwacha to book popular artist Yo Maps. In response to this, fellow musician Vinchenzo made his own announcement, stating that his booking fee has now increased to 70,000 Zambian Kwacha.
Vinchenzo took to social media to comment on DJ Kandeke’s post, humorously comparing his price to Yo Maps’ by saying, “Very good, book me ine ndine ochipako nkasako, k70,000 chabe nizayamba kubwela nama dancers I promise,” which translates to him being “cheap” and “affordable” in comparison. He further promised to bring dancers along when booked at that fee, positioning himself as a more accessible option for event organizers.
This marks the third time in just one month that Vinchenzo has raised his booking fee. Initially, he set it at 50,000 Zambian Kwacha, later increasing it to 65,000 Zambian Kwacha, and now with this latest hike, his booking fee stands at 70,000 Zambian Kwacha.
The rapid increase in booking fees raises a pertinent question: are Zambian artists finally getting paid what they are truly worth? Music enthusiasts and industry insiders are split on the issue, with some arguing that the rising fees are a reflection of the growing recognition and demand for local talent, while others feel that the increases may not always be justified given the perceived value of some performances.
The entertainment industry has seen a surge in local talent garnering international recognition, and many Zambian artists are beginning to understand the power of their brand and the value they bring to the table. As the country’s music scene continues to grow, there are calls for artists to set fees that are fair and reflective of their craft.
However, some fans have expressed mixed feelings about the increases. A commenter, for instance, jokingly remarked, “And what value do you bring to a function when all you do is maim your songs? I can’t even book you free, my friend.” This points to a wider debate about whether higher fees are always synonymous with higher quality.
As Zambian artists continue to raise their booking fees, it’s clear that they are becoming more aware of their worth. Whether these fee hikes reflect their true value or not will ultimately be determined by the audience’s reception and demand for their performances. But one thing is certain: Zambian artists are asserting their place in the entertainment industry, and the market will decide the price of their talent.
