EXCLUSIVE: Armaan Malik Says, “Bollywood Is Not Really A Source Of Income For Singers!”
In a candid chat with Instant Bollywood, popular singer Armaan Malik spoke openly about a reality that might surprise many fans. Despite being one of the most recognizable voices in Indian music, Armaan says Bollywood is not a reliable source of income for singers.
EXCLUSIVE: Armaan Malik Says, “Bollywood Is Not Really A Source Of Income For Singers!”
We often imagine that once a singer makes it in Bollywood, they’re set for life. But Armaan clears up that myth. According to him, Bollywood songs might bring fame, but they don’t bring much money.
“Bollywood’s not really a source of income. I’ve said it many times, but people don’t listen. It’s hard to believe, I get that,” he said during the chat.
The statement might sound shocking coming from someone with such a successful career, but Armaan explains that most singers earn very little from the industry.
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Armaan Malik Reveals What’s The Real Source Of Income For Singers
So where does the money actually come from? Armaan points to live shows and concerts. That’s where the real financial opportunity is for artists.
“The main source of income for singers, especially popular musicians, is live shows and concerts. That’s where there’s a huge scope to make a lot of money. That’s the real money-making deal.”
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He also touched on streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube. While it might seem like streaming would bring steady income, the reality is far different.
“When you release songs on streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube, the money you make from royalties is really tiny. I mean, it’s there, but super small. Like, you can barely count it as a significant income source.”
He added that if you have a strong social media following, you might get brand deals or earn through content on YouTube. But in general, music streaming alone is not enough to pay the bills.
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Armaan Malik Praises Salim-Sulaiman
Despite the general trend of underpayment, Armaan shared that he has worked with some composers who always make sure everyone is paid fairly. He mentioned Salim-Sulaiman as a great example.
“In Bollywood, I must say, I’ve been lucky to work with some really amazing composers who make sure I get compensated. I’d say Salim-Sulaiman are definitely one of those. They never ask me to sing a song for free, not even once. I’m like family to them. But they always make sure that every musician, even if they just played one note in the song, gets paid, at least some compensation for their effort.”
He made it clear that this kind of professionalism is rare. Most singers and even composers don’t get properly compensated unless they are already legends in the industry.
Armaan Malik On The Problem Of Underpayment In Bollywood
“But mostly you see the singer’s not getting paid properly, and the music composer also isn’t getting properly compensated at all. Unless you’re like top-tier, like Rahman sir, Pritam sir. I mean, it really is sad.”
It’s eye-opening to hear someone like Armaan Malik speak so honestly about the struggles behind the spotlight. While Bollywood may give fame, the fortune often comes from elsewhere, like live performances, concerts, brand deals, and viral content.
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