I turn down £30,000 UK gigs because Ghana pays better – Shatta Wale

Ghanaian reggae-dancehall star Shatta Wale has claimed that he can earn as much as $1 million for performances in Ghana, attributing his financial success to the strong support and recognition he enjoys within the country.

Speaking in an interview with Adesope Olajide, popularly known as Adesope, the award-winning musician said Ghana has been instrumental in building his brand and wealth over the years.

“I’ve always seen myself as this international star,” Shatta Wale stated. “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 the dancehall artiste, his success extends beyond music sales and live performances. He noted that the level of respect he receives from political figures, event organisers and influential personalities has significantly enhanced his value in the entertainment industry.

“The respect I have from political parties, ministers and organisers is crazy for me in Ghana,” he said. “Anybody that calls me in Ghana gives me the respect they’ll give to Jay-Z and Beyoncé.”

Shatta Wale explained that promoters invest heavily in his concerts and appearances, which motivates him and his team to deliver high-quality productions and memorable performances for fans.

“Anything I need for my shows is done properly,” he noted. “We spend so much because the promoters also pay so much, so we make sure we give them what they deserve.”

The musician also revealed why he frequently declines performance invitations from Europe and the United Kingdom, saying the fees offered overseas often fall below what he considers acceptable compared to opportunities available 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 suggested that current economic challenges in Europe and other Western countries may be affecting event budgets and organisers’ ability to meet his expectations.

“I’ll be honest with you, things are tough in Europe and the West right now,” he added. “When things are okay, then you come and call me.”

Shatta Wale further stated that he has maintained a luxurious lifestyle for more than a decade through earnings generated largely from his work in Ghana. He compared his lifestyle and spending habits to those of international hip-hop stars such as Lil Baby and Lil Durk, whom he says inspire his approach to success and personal branding.

The comments have sparked discussions among music fans and industry observers about the earning potential of top Ghanaian artistes and the growing commercial value of the country's entertainment industry.