Qing Madi: Music Industry Pays Like “Drug Money,” Says Nigerian Singer

Nigerian singer Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, known professionally as Qing Madi, has described earnings in the music industry as unusually high, comparing them to “drug money” in terms of scale and speed.

The 19-year-old made the remarks during a recent appearance on the Tea With Tay podcast, where she spoke about the financial realities of being an artist in Nigeria.

According to her, a single performance can generate income far beyond what many Nigerians earn in a year or even several years, highlighting the wide gap between entertainment earnings and average wages.

“Music money is not normal, it is like drug money,” she said. “I don’t think people know how… And I’m not the person who would buy stuff and put on the media because I do think that would change the narrative of what I am to the media.”

She explained that while she has attained financial independence through music, she deliberately avoids showcasing her wealth on social media, preferring to maintain a focus on her craft rather than material possessions.

“I don’t like people looking at me and seeing money. But I am rich,” she added.

Qing Madi also drew a comparison between the earnings of artists and average Nigerian workers, noting that while many earn modest monthly salaries, entertainers can make significant sums from a single show.

Beyond financial matters, the singer reflected on the emotional role of music in Nigerian society. She suggested that the popularity of music in the country may be linked to limited access to formal mental health services.

She said many Nigerians rely on music as a form of therapy and emotional escape, given the challenges of accessing professional support