Photo: Courtesy
Kenyan rapper Stevo Simple Boy has recently made headlines with his bold statement regarding potential collaborations with Tanzanian superstar Diamond Platnumz. Stevo revealed that he would only consider a collaboration with Diamond if he is paid a substantial fee of KSh 20 million.
This revelation came after Diamond reportedly reached out to Stevo via Instagram with an offer for a joint project.
In his announcement, Stevo Simple Boy, who is known for his unique style and impactful lyrics, made it clear that without the significant payment, there would be no deal.
“Diamond, you texted me on Instagram saying you want a collabo, but unless you cough up KSh 20 million, there’s no deal,” Stevo stated, emphasizing his position as the “Self-declared King of Africa.”
This declaration highlights Stevo’s firm stance on the value he places on his work and collaborations.
Diamond Platnumz, renowned for his impressive musical career and collaborations with international artists, has a track record of working with high-profile figures in the industry.
He has previously teamed up with global stars like Koffi Olomidé, Ne-Yo, and Jason Derulo. His collaborations are known not only for their musical quality but also for their high production values.
For instance, Diamond’s collaboration with Ne-Yo on the track “Marry You” reportedly cost around KSh 10 million.
This significant investment reflects the high production standards and promotional efforts involved in such projects.
Similarly, his track “Waka,” featuring Rick Ross, had a production budget of approximately KSh 5.6 million. These figures underscore the financial commitment required for high-profile collaborations.
One of Diamond’s most ambitious projects to date is the remix of “Komasava” featuring Jason Derulo.
This song stands out not only for its musical appeal but also for its extravagant production costs.
The remix, which is currently trending, was filmed across various international locations, including Dubai and Paris. The total cost of this project reportedly exceeded KSh 24 million.
SK Sallam, Diamond’s longtime manager, revealed that the budget for the video surpassed Tsh 500 million (approximately KSh 24 million).
This hefty budget covered a wide range of expenses, from logistics and location fees to production costs and accommodation.
“The video was shot across different locations by three different directors. There are scenes in Dubai’s desert, Paris, and additional scenes featuring both Diamond and Jason in Dubai,” SK Sallam explained.
This elaborate production showcases Diamond’s commitment to creating visually stunning and globally appealing music videos.
Stevo Simple Boy’s demand for KSh 20 million reflects his own aspirations and the high value he places on his music.
His position highlights the growing trend of African artists recognizing and asserting their worth in the global music industry.
As the landscape of African music continues to evolve, collaborations between artists from different countries are becoming increasingly common, with both parties seeking fair compensation for their contributions.
In conclusion, Stevo Simple Boy’s stance on the collaboration with Diamond Platnumz is a significant statement about the value of artistic partnerships and the financial realities of the music industry.
As both artists navigate these high-stakes negotiations, their decisions will likely impact the dynamics of future collaborations and the overall landscape of African music.
