Diamond Reveals Turning Down Quarter‑Million‑Dollar Deal with Jay‑Z

Tanzanian star Diamond Platnumz has confirmed rejecting a $250,000 offer from Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, choosing to continue with his $5 million Warner Music deal.

PHOTO | COURTESY

Why Diamond Chose Warner Music Over Roc Nation

Speaking in a candid interview, Diamond Platnumz dismissed suggestions that Tanzanian artistes are being sidelined by global labels. Instead, he shed light on his decision-making process after parting ways with Universal Music.

“Nilimaliza mkataba na Universal kwa dola milioni moja. Roc Nation wakanioffer dola 250,000 sawa na TSh 675,000,000, nikakataa. Warner wakanioffer dola milioni 5 sawa na bilioni 13.5, nikasign na Warner na ndio hao nafanya nao kazi,” Diamond revealed.

In English, Diamond explained that after completing his $1 million contract with Universal Music, Roc Nation tabled a $250,000 offer, which he declined. Instead, he signed a full-service deal worth $5 million (approx. KSh 675 million) with Warner Music Group.

Shifting Power Dynamics in African Music

Diamond’s decision underscores a growing confidence among African artistes negotiating with international record labels. The WCB Wasafi founder said his Warner Music partnership is a 360-degree deal covering distribution, branding, tours, and global promotion.

The move highlights the increasing recognition of African music as a global force, with artistes like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems also signing lucrative international deals.

What This Means for Tanzanian Artistes

The revelation comes amid a wider debate about fair treatment of African musicians by global record companies. Critics have accused some labels of underpaying and underpromoting artistes from emerging markets.

Diamond’s success story with Warner Music, however, suggests that top-tier African talent is now in a position to negotiate multi-million-dollar contracts on more equal footing.

From Local Star to Global Icon

Diamond Platnumz remains one of East Africa’s biggest music exports. With a string of international collaborations under his belt—including hits with Beyoncé and Alicia Keys—the Bongo Flava star has cemented his place in the global music scene.

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