Ghanaian gospel artiste Diana Hamilton has shared an unexpected challenge gospel musicians face when booking major international venues.
Speaking on Star FM’s Starr Chat, she explained that her team once explored hosting a show at the O2 Arena, following in the footsteps of fellow UK-based Ghanaian gospel artist Emmanuel Smith.
“So, we inquired about the venue, what was it, O2, because Emanuel Smith had done it,” she said.
She said discussions were initiated through management, and although she was not directly involved in the negotiations, the cost involved came as a shock.
“So my management spoke to Emmanuel, and, you know, I didn’t do the contacting, but they went, spoke, and then the figures came, and they gave headaches,” she stated.
Diana Hamilton further revealed that the high charges were as a result of revenue expectations from alcohol sales, adding it plays a role in pricing for some venues.
“He was told that because they will not sell alcohol or stuff like that and they make their extra money from selling those drinks. So that explains why the price was high,” she noted.
Despite the surprise, she said the experience did not discourage them, as they eventually explored other venues and moved on with their plans.
“How did I feel? Surprised was the word. Surprised. I think I was surprised that it was like that. But we found a lot of venue and we were able to experience there. We moved on,” she added.
