Top 10 Richest Musicians in Zambia in 2025
Top 10 Richest Musicians in Zambia in 2025 (Net Worth & Success Stories)
Zambia’s music industry has grown into a multimillion-dollar empire, giving rise to iconic artists who’ve not only conquered the charts but also built impressive financial empires. These musicians have gone beyond entertainment—venturing into business, brand ambassadorships, real estate, and global collaborations.
In this comprehensive list of the Top 10 Richest Musicians in Zambia 2025, we explore each artist’s estimated net worth, sources of income, and impact on Zambian culture and music. Let’s dive into the updated rankings.
1. Yo Maps – $3 Million (ZMW 81 Million)
Real Name: Elton Mulenga
Genre: Afrobeat / Zed RnB / Contemporary Zambian Pop
Years Active: 2016 – Present
Why He’s #1:
Yo Maps continues to dominate the Zambian music scene with a portfolio that includes global collaborations, packed stadium concerts, and a fanbase that spans across Africa. His mega-hits like “Finally”, “So Mone”, and “Pick It Up” rake in millions in digital streaming and royalties. In 2025, he also launched his own fashion and fragrance line, further expanding his business empire.
Income Sources:
- YouTube and streaming revenue
- Endorsement deals with MTN, Itel, and local banks
- Event hosting and live shows
- Merchandising and personal branding
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2. Macky 2 – $1.2 Million
Real Name: Mulaza Kaira
Genre: Hip Hop / Zed Beats
Years Active: 2010 – Present
Why He’s #2:
Although he officially retired from active music in 2022, Macky 2 remains a financial powerhouse through Alpha Entertainment and real estate investments in Lusaka and Kitwe. His brand influence is still strong, often being tapped for high-value brand partnerships and political campaigns.
Income Streams:
- Music label (Alpha Entertainment)
- Real estate projects in Copperbelt
- Influencer deals and commercial advertising
- Legacy royalties from albums like Ghetto President
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3. Slapdee – $1.1 Million
Real Name: Mwila Musonda
Genre: Hip Hop / Afro-fusion
Years Active: 2006 – Present
Why He’s #3:
Slapdee is not just a rapper—he’s an empire. As the founder of XYZ Entertainment, he has mentored some of Zambia’s finest while expanding into tech, NFTs, and an energy drink brand launched in 2024. With constant tour bookings and commercial endorsements, Slapdee remains one of the highest earners in the country.
Revenue Streams:
- Founder of XYZ Entertainment
- Streaming platforms and NFT music sales
- Brand endorsements (Huawei, Zamtel)
- Annual “Slapdee & Friends” music festival
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4. OC Osilliation – $1 Million
Real Name: Siame O’Brien
Genre: Afro-pop / International Zed
Based In: USA & Zambia
Why He’s #4:
Operating between Zambia and the USA, OC Osilliation has monetized his international presence by tapping into licensing deals, music placements in Nollywood films, and diaspora-based concerts. His long-standing presence in music production continues to generate consistent revenue.
Income Highlights:
- Music licensing and royalties in U.S.
- Diaspora events in Atlanta and New York
- Digital audio production company
- Global YouTube audience
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5. Chef 187 – $920,000
Real Name: Kondwani Kaira
Genre: Hip Hop / Zed Fusion
Years Active: 2012 – Present
Why He’s #5:
Chef 187’s lyrical intelligence and consistency have earned him endorsement deals, a mini-documentary deal with Netflix Zambia in 2025, and top-billing in pan-African tours. He continues to build on the Kaira musical legacy while standing out with originality and lyrical brilliance.
Earnings Channels:
- Music sales and streaming
- Touring and performance contracts
- Netflix licensing
- Fashion line “187 Gear”
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6. Chanda Mbao – $860,000
Real Name: Chanda Mbao
Genre: Urban Hip Hop / International Collabs
Years Active: 2015 – Present
Why He’s #6:
Known for being Zambia’s most internationally minded rapper, Chanda Mbao blends business with artistry. In 2025, he launched a cryptocurrency investment community targeting African creatives and recently invested in Lusaka’s nightlife with his new club, VYBZ.
Earning Points:
- Crypto and NFT music releases
- Club & nightlife ventures
- High-quality video sponsorships
- Endorsements from fashion and fintech brands
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7. King Kayo – $810,000
Real Name: Kayombo
Genre: Afrobeat / Traditional Fusion
Years Active: 2003 – Present
Why He’s #7:
King Kayo is a legend in the local music scene with staying power. Known for his cultural influence and catchy hooks, Kayombo has benefited from mining-sector endorsements and traditional festival performances that pay high in rural circuits.
Revenue Streams:
- Rural music festivals and community gigs
- Local brand ambassador roles
- Cultural advocacy grants
- Physical CD and DVD sales in remote areas
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8. Mampi – $530,000
Real Name: Mirriam Mukape
Genre: Pop / Dancehall / R&B
Years Active: 2003 – Present
Why She’s #8:
Dubbed the “Queen of Zambian Music,” Mampi continues to dominate female representation in music. In 2025, she released her fragrance line Mampi by Mukape and secured ambassadorial roles with women empowerment campaigns.
Main Income:
- Fragrance & fashion brands
- High-profile performances and tours
- Brand deals (telecom and beauty)
- Online workshops for aspiring female artists
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9. Cleo Ice Queen – $455,000
Real Name: Clementina Mulenga
Genre: Hip Hop / TV Personality
Years Active: 2010 – Present
Why She’s #9:
From Big Brother Africa to television stardom and rap music, Cleo has maximized every opportunity to build her brand. She’s currently a TV host, fitness advocate, and runs a popular YouTube show focused on wellness, style, and hip hop culture.
Revenue Avenues:
- TV hosting gigs
- Brand sponsorships in fitness and health
- Podcasting and content creation
- Female-focused entrepreneurial ventures
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10. B Flow – $380,000
Real Name: Brian Bwembya
Genre: Dancehall / Activism / Hip Hop
Years Active: 2009 – Present
Why He’s #10:
B Flow is more than an artist—he’s a UN Youth Ambassador and humanitarian. While his music focuses on social justice, his real wealth stems from international grants, NGO partnerships, and human rights campaigns supported by the UN and WHO.
Financial Sources:
- NGO partnerships & grants
- Humanitarian tours & summits
- Music with a cause projects
- Ambassadorial roles
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Final Thoughts
The Zambian music industry in 2025 showcases a dynamic shift artists are no longer just performers but media moguls, investors, and brand ambassadors. The names listed here represent not only music royalty but also strategic thinkers shaping Zambia’s cultural and economic future.
