Langalihle Mhiti
Malloti has defended her partner, Zimdancehall musician Hulengende, amid questions about his seemingly wayward lifestyle.
The sought-after chanter is currently demanding around US$5000 per performance, putting him among the highest earners in Zimbabwe music’s live show business.
Malloti dismissed speculation about the source of the musician’s wealth, suggesting that his growing music career provides an explanation for the lifestyle that has attracted attention online.
“People should not ask where the cars are coming from. The man is hard-working,” she said.
Her comments have stirred discussion on social media, drawing attention to Hulengende’s growing commercial profile in the dancehall scene.
Malloti revealed that Hulengende charges US$5,000 for a single performance, a figure that has drawn attention to the commercial value of the chanter’s growing popularity.
Malloti’s claim of US$5000 per show come at a time when local artists are increasingly using social media and streaming platforms to promote their work, reach audiences and create additional income streams.
For performers with a strong following, live appearances can also provide opportunities to connect with fans while earning from their popularity.
Malloti offered another glimpse into the couple’s music-related finances by sharing a their YouTube earnings. She showed a balance of US$20,796.89, while November earnings had already reached US$265.63.
This gave followers an indication of revenue generated through the video-sharing platform, although it does not establish the musician’s total earnings or how frequently such payments are received.
The figures have added to conversations about the business side of music, particularly how artists can turn their popularity into financial opportunities beyond releasing songs.
For many musicians, digital platforms have become important tools for reaching wider audiences, promoting new releases and building a loyal fan base. Combined with live performances, these platforms can contribute to an artist’s overall commercial success.
Hulengende has continued to build his presence in the local music industry, attracting attention from dancehall followers. Malloti’s comments have now added a financial angle to conversations about his career, with the reported show fee becoming a talking point among fans and social media users.
The reported US$5,000 booking fee has also raised interest in the value of live performances within the Zimdancehall industry, where popular performers can attract audiences to shows and entertainment events.
The performance fee and YouTube earnings has kept the couple in the social media spotlight.
Reactions have been varied, with some users questioning the figures while others have argued that musicians should be able to enjoy the rewards of their hard work.
The debate has also generated interest in the earning potential of popular local performers, particularly at a time when music is increasingly being viewed as a business rather than simply a creative pursuit.
For now, Malloti’s message is that Hulengende’s lifestyle should be viewed in the context of his work as a musician.
