AY Reveals Nigerian Artistes Now Charge Up to N200m for AY Live Performances

Nigerian comedian and entertainer AY Makun has revealed that the fees demanded by some Nigerian music stars for live performances have risen sharply, with some artistes now charging as much as N200 million to appear at his AY Live comedy show.

AY also disclosed that some emerging artistes who have yet to attain major-star status can demand fees of up to N80 million for an appearance.

The comedian made the revelation while discussing the changing cost of booking Nigerian artistes for AY Live and how the entertainment business has evolved over the years.

AY said some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage and Olamide, have performed at AY Live. He explained that securing their appearances in the earlier years was often made easier by personal relationships and connections within the entertainment industry.

The comedian’s comments highlight the increasing commercial value of Nigerian music stars as the country’s entertainment industry continues to expand locally and internationally.

According to AY, booking major artistes has become significantly more expensive compared with the early years of AY Live, when personal relationships could help facilitate appearances without the same financial demands now associated with headline performers.

The revelation also points to the growing financial gap between established music stars and emerging performers, although the amounts artistes charge can vary depending on the event, performer, timing and terms of engagement.

AY Live has featured some of the country’s leading entertainers over the years, combining stand-up comedy with live musical performances and celebrity appearances.

His comments have consequently drawn attention to the rising cost of entertainment production in Nigeria and the financial demands facing organisers who want to assemble high-profile line-ups.