Tanzanian music sensation Diamond Platnumz has revealed that he turned down a lucrative deal from Jay-Z’s Roc Nation in favor of a much larger contract from Warner Music Group.
In a fiery social media exchange, the Bongo Flava star addressed claims that Tanzanian artists often miss out on global record deals due to inflated streaming numbers or a lack of international appeal.
Responding directly to a critic, Diamond disclosed that Roc Nation once offered him Sh30 million ($250,000), an offer he boldly turned down.
Instead, Warner Music Group came forward with a staggering Sh600 million ($5 million), which he accepted.
“Lebo ya Kimataifa kwako wewe ni zipi labda?…. Nilimaliza Mkataba na Universal kwa Dola Milioni Moja, Rocnation Wakanioffer DOLAR $250,000 sawa na Tsh 675,000,000 nikakataa, Warner wakanioffer Dollar Milllion 5 sawa na Bilioni 13.5 nikasign na Warner na ndio hao nafanya nao kazi au kwako wewe Warner ni Lebo ya Mtoni mtongani nini?….jitahidi kufanya research kabla ya kukurupuka kuandika!”
The candid clapback quickly went viral, attracting attention across Africa’s music circles and reigniting debates about artist value, global deals, and East Africa’s presence in the international music industry.
Diamond, whose real name is Nasibu Abdul Juma, reminded fans that he had earlier signed a Sh129 million ($1million) deal with Universal Music before choosing Warner Music as his long-term international partner move that aligned with his vision for broader global reach.
Despite the dominance of Nigerian artists on the global stage, Diamond’s deal with Warner signals an increasing recognition of East African talent by major international labels.
With hits like “Jeje,” “Waah,” “Yatapita,” and collaborations with global stars, he continues to expand his influence far beyond Tanzania.
Warner Group has several contracts with African artistes.
In late 2024, Nigerian music icon Flavour entered a joint deal with Warner Music Africa and Africori.
This deal was meant to enable Flavour to leverage the group’s extensive global network to amplify his sound and expand his audience.
Another artiste, CKay, recently concluded his recording agreement with Warner Music Africa, choosing not to renew his contract.