## AR Rahman Reigns Supreme: India’s Highest-Paid Singer Commands a ₹3 Crore Fee Per Song
The world of music is filled with talented artists, but few command the respect and remuneration of AR Rahman. This legendary music composer and record producer is currently the highest-paid singer in India, according to a Hindustan Times report. Industry insiders confirm that Rahman, who isn’t even a full-time singer, charges a staggering ₹3 crore for each song he graces with his voice. This exorbitant fee places him far above other singers, who charge 12-15 times less for their services.
Rahman’s incredible success story began in 2005 when he was listed on Time’s all-time “10 Best Soundtracks,” propelling him to international fame. His estimated net worth stands at a staggering $280 million, a testament to his unparalleled talent and influence in the Indian music scene.
Known for his captivating works in Hindi and Tamil films, Rahman has graced countless soundtracks with his mesmerizing melodies. Some of his most acclaimed compositions include ‘Jai Ho’ from the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, and the title track from the iconic Bollywood film Dil Se.
This Oscar-winning artist, who wears the hats of singer, music composer, and director, reportedly charges the hefty premium to discourage composers from approaching him for vocal collaborations. Rahman’s primary focus remains his own compositions, and he prefers to sing only for films where he also serves as the music director. If a producer wants him to lend his voice to another composer’s creation, they must be prepared to pay the exorbitant fee.
Rahman’s influence extends beyond the recording studio, as he is scheduled to attend the Lata Mangeshkar Memorial Talk at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa on November 27th. The event, held at the Kala Academy, will delve into the fascinating world of Musical Theatre in India.
## A Glimpse into the World of High-Earning Singers in India
While Rahman’s fee sets him apart, let’s delve into the realm of full-time singers who also command significant earnings. Leading this pack is the immensely talented Shreya Ghoshal, a 40-year-old powerhouse who charges ₹ 25 lakh per song. Known for her captivating voice, she’s a favorite among music directors, and her hit song ‘Chikni Chameli’ remains a popular anthem.
Sunidhi Chauhan, a contemporary artist known for her versatility and powerful vocals, follows closely behind. She commands a fee of ₹ 18-20 lakh per song, placing her as the second highest-paid full-time singer in India. Interestingly, Arijit Singh, another renowned playback singer and musical composer, earns the same as Chauhan. He’s known for his soulful renditions, with hits like ‘Galti Se Mistake,’ ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani,’ and ‘Neki Ki Raah’ captivating audiences across the nation.
Sonu Nigam, a veteran playback singer and music director, comes in at the next spot, charging ₹ 15-18 lakh for a song. His vast experience and musical contributions have made him a beloved figure in the Indian music scene.
Finally, two rising stars, rapper Badshah and singer Diljit Dosanjh, have recently experienced significant increases in their fees. With their growing popularity and unique styles, they are poised to join the ranks of India’s highest-paid singers in the near future.
The fees commanded by these talented artists highlight the lucrative nature of the Indian music industry. As singers continue to enthrall audiences with their voices and creativity, their earnings are sure to reflect their immense contributions to the world of music.
