By Rinelda Mouton
Releasing an album in Namibia is undeniably expensive, with costs often ranging between N$35,000 and N$300,000 depending on the level of production quality an artist is aiming for.
Internationally acclaimed musician Riaan Smit says artists generally get what they pay for. According to him, lower-cost producers may lack experience, proper equipment or industry insight, which can affect the final sound and competitiveness of a project, while higher-priced professionals often bring consistency, quality and valuable networks.
“Price does not always guarantee quality. There are talented, affordable producers, especially in Namibia, but working with experienced people reduces risk. It really depends on the level of quality and the team involved. In Namibia, a basic release can cost anywhere from N$2,000 to N$10,000, while a more professional production, working with experienced producers, proper mixing and mastering and marketing can range from N$15,000 to N$50,000 or more per song,” Smit said.
He added that if visuals, public relations and distribution are included, costs increase significantly.
“A song could be just a guitar and a singer or it could be a 60-piece orchestra, so the cost depends on the musical ingredients. An album of eight to 12 tracks can realistically cost between N$80,000 and N$300,000 or more, depending on quality, collaborations and promotion.”
Smit said shooting a music video in Namibia can cost anywhere from N$3,000 for a basic production to N$50,000 for a high-end shoot. “In most cases, music videos do not generate direct profit. They are a marketing tool used to promote the song, build a brand and attract bookings or sponsorships. The return is usually indirect.”
He stressed that artists need to approach music as both a creative passion and a business venture, adding that Namibia needs stronger industry structures, better education and more support systems, particularly around royalties and distribution.
“It is worth making music in Namibia, but it depends on your expectations. If you are doing it purely for money, it is very challenging. But if you are passionate and will- ing to treat it as a long-term investment, it can be worth it,” Smit said.
Afro-jazz artist Erna Chimu estimates that a 10-track album with mid-level production can cost between N$35,000 and N$80,000, while a major-label quality project can go as high as N$150,000. She said a single song can cost anywhere from N$3,000 on the low end to N$25,000 for a high-end release with professional mixing, mastering and promotion.
“Many artists and the public do not under- stand royalties. We need more workshops. It is important for artists to register everything with NASCAM because unregistered music means no pay,” Chimu said.
She added that Namibia’s music scene is growing rapidly, especially through amapiano, Afrobeat and collaborations.
“With the internet, artists do not need South Africa or the US to break through. You can build a career through shows, corporate gigs and regional touring,” she said.
Gospel rapper Naftalie Shigwedha Amukwelele, popularly known as D-Naff, said he has spent more when working with international producers.
“The prices of studio production differ from producer to producer. I normally work with Araffath, who used to charge between N$2,000 and N$15,000. I have also worked with Ben Blazer from Zambia and Ogopa Deejays from Kenya, and their prices are much higher than Namibian rates,” he said.
Amukwelele said lower production budgets often result in lower-quality output. “If you are shooting a music video, you will need a budget of at least N$50,000 to N$250,000 depending on the company you choose. You also need to pay choreographers, dancers, costume designers, location fees, make-up artists and sometimes a director.”
He advised aspiring artists to focus on mastering the craft before chasing financial rewards.
“Some of us did not start because we wanted money. We wanted to reach people with a message, and before we knew it, money started flowing in.”
Amukwelele added that many artists maintain full-time jobs and should not view that as failure. “There is nothing wrong with having a full-time job. It helps you invest in quality equipment and sustain your music career. Your gift will always make a way for you,” he said.
