Bongo Flava icon Diamond Platnumz has strongly dismissed claims made by Tanzanian media analyst Mdau that local artistes fail to secure international record label deals because they buy fake views, a practice that makes global labels avoid working with them.
In a comment on Monday, July 21, 2025, the Wasafi Records CEO, visibly irritated by the sweeping statement, came out to defend himself and the Tanzanian music industry, listing the high-profile global contracts he has landed over the years.
In a fiery response, Diamond questioned the credibility of the claims, asking what international labels Mdau was referring to.
He revealed that he previously signed a contract with Universal Music worth $1 million (approximately Ksh129 million) before moving on to bigger opportunities.
He further disclosed that Roc Nation, the entertainment company co-founded by Jay-Z, offered him $250,000 (around Ksh32.2 million), which he turned down.
Diamond went on to say that Warner Music later tabled a $5 million deal (approximately Ksh645 million), which he signed and is currently working under.
“Which international labels are you even talking about? I ended my contract with Universal for $1 million, Roc Nation gave me an offer of $250,000, which I rejected, and Warner gave me $5 million, which I signed, and those are the ones I am currently working with. Or do you think Warner is some unknown label from Mtoni Mtongani? You should do your research before rushing to write nonsense!” Diamond wrote, calling for accurate research before making such public claims.
His sharp response sparked further debate online, with one fan stepping in to argue that while Diamond may have secured major deals, other Tanzanian artistes have not received similar approaches, unlike their Nigerian counterparts.
“Before responding, you should have read and understood properly, bro. Those labels you mentioned only approached Diamond. What about other artistes? Mdau asked in general, you cannot compare Tanzanians to Nigerians,” the fan commented.
Diamond fired back, pointing out that the original post by Mdau had singled him out by using his picture while criticising Tanzanian artistes in general.
He defended his angry response to the reports about artistes lacking international deals, saying it would have been better if Mdau’s post had not featured his photo, as he felt personally targeted.
“He should have put their pictures then! Not say Tanzanian artistes and then place my picture in front, meaning me and all of them!” he responded, making it clear that he would not tolerate being the face of such negative narratives.
