A few years back, Kenyan Kikuyu secular musician Samidoh Muchoki found himself sharing the stage with Tanzanian Bongo sensation Diamond Platnumz.
It was a significant moment for Samidoh, as he performed alongside East Africa’s biggest star.
Samidoh’s performance at Thika Stadium in December 2018 was nothing short of electrifying, garnering him considerable attention.
His name trended on various social media platforms, with many praising his talent and stage presence. Despite being the opening act for Diamond Platnumz, Samidoh managed to steal the show with his stellar performance.
However, what many didn’t know was the vast disparity in payment between Samidoh and Diamond Platnumz for their respective performances.
Samidoh recently revealed that while Diamond received a substantial sum of Ksh 6 million for his appearance while he himself was paid a mere Ksh100,000.
Despite the significant difference in compensation, Samidoh maintained a positive outlook on the situation.
He emphasized that his primary goal was not monetary gain but rather the opportunity to showcase his talent and build his brand.
The exposure he gained from performing alongside Diamond Platnumz was invaluable, propelling him further into the spotlight and expanding his fan base.
Samidoh’s perspective reflects a focus on long-term career growth rather than immediate financial reward.
While the pay gap may seem glaring, he views it as a stepping stone towards achieving his ultimate goal of establishing himself as a prominent figure in the music industry.
In hindsight, Samidoh’s decision to prioritize exposure and career advancement over monetary compensation appears to have paid off.
His performance alongside Diamond Platnumz not only showcased his musical prowess but also opened doors to new opportunities and heightened recognition within the East African music scene.
