Music Money Feels Unreal, Like “Drug Money” – Qing Madi

Fast-rising Nigerian singer Qing Madi has likened earnings in the music industry to “drug money,” highlighting the stark contrast between what artists make and the income of many Nigerians in conventional jobs.

Speaking on the Tea with Tay podcast hosted by Temisan Emmanuel Ahwieh, the 18-year-old artist said the speed and scale of income in music can feel almost unbelievable.

She noted that while an average Nigerian worker might earn about ₦500,000 monthly, an artist could make as much as ₦20 million from a single performance. When the host described such earnings as “drug money,” Qing Madi agreed with the comparison.

Her comments reflect ongoing discussions about the rapid growth of Nigeria’s music industry, driven by increased global demand and streaming success. According to Spotify’s Loud & Clear report, Nigerian artists generated over ₦60 billion in streaming revenue in 2025, with earnings rising by more than 140 percent in the past two years.

The report also showed a surge in global listenership. In 2025, Nigerian artists recorded 30.3 billion streams and 1.6 billion listening hours on Spotify. Their songs reached over 1.3 billion new listeners, marking a 26 percent increase from 2024.

Beyond finances, Qing Madi spoke about the emotional role music plays in Nigerian society. She suggested that many Nigerians turn to music as a coping mechanism due to limited access to mental health support.

According to her, Nigerians are resilient people who continue to work despite emotional challenges, often relying on music for comfort.

The singer also reflected on how financial success has changed her approach to her craft. She said greater financial freedom has reduced the pressure to create music solely for survival, allowing her to focus on authenticity.

Looking ahead, Qing Madi said she hopes to build a body of work she can be proud of in the long term, even if it means resisting trends or commercial pressure.

Born Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, Qing Madi rose to prominence in 2022 after her debut single See Finish went viral. She is now regarded as one of the emerging voices shaping Nigeria’s Afro-R&B scene.