Chemical Ali Reveals What Artistes Consider Before Choosing Producers

Ugandan music producer and sound engineer Chemical Ali Nicer has weighed in on a question many aspiring producers often ask: Is there really money in audio production?

The producer shared his thoughts while appearing on NBS After 5 alongside fellow producers Ayo Bassboi and Kuseim.

During the discussion, Ayo Bassboi reflected on how far the industry has come, noting that producers once charged as little as Shs100,000 or Shs200,000 for a song and sometimes even worked for free.

Today, however, he estimates that producing a song costs an average of about Shs1 million.

Chemical Ali agreed that audio production can be a lucrative career, but stressed that success depends on more than simply owning studio equipment. According to him, producers must consistently demonstrate creativity, maintain a strong work ethic, and build a catalogue that inspires confidence among artistes.

There is money in the industry, but it depends on the position you are in. The creativity you use and your work ethic as an individual determine how much money you make. You cannot do absolutely nothing and expect money to come your way. They [artistes] also look at your catalogue. They look at what you can do for them and the magic you have at your fingertips before they give you that money.