LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)– Senegalese-American music star Akon has challenged public perceptions about wealth in the music industry, claiming that many popular artists are not as financially secure as fans believe despite their glamorous lifestyles.
For years, fans have associated successful artists with luxury cars, designer fashion, lavish homes and extravagant lifestyles.
Akon stated that the image does not always reflect reality.
The “Lonely” hitmaker said many performers who appear rich on social media and in music videos are actually struggling financially behind the scenes.
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Speaking during an interview with Hip Hop Eye, the singer explained that while the music business can generate significant revenue, artists are often not the biggest beneficiaries.
Instead, he said the people working behind the scenes tend to earn more from the industry.
“In the music industry, the artist is the last to get paid. He is the broke one but he is the most famous. If you want to be broke and famous, be the artist. But if you want to make real money go to other sectors of music business, like the producer, songwriter, manager, agent and attorney. There are so many areas in the entertainment field that you can really maximise,” he said.
Furthermore, Akon encouraged people interested in entertainment to explore opportunities beyond performing.
He noted that careers such as music production, songwriting, artist management, talent representation and entertainment law can offer stronger financial rewards.
