Yvonne Chaka Chaka: ‘I made my first R1 million at 21, money comes and goes’

A RESURFACED interview with Yvonne Chaka Chaka has sparked renewed discussion about wealth, fame, and financial discipline in the music industry. The 2021 conversation, part of the "Old Mutual On The Money" programme, has gained fresh attention after being shared on TikTok.

During the discussion, Chaka Chaka reflected on her early financial success. "I must say, you know, at 21, I had a million in my account. Thanks to Phil Hollis. I did a Pepsi ad with Michael Jackson and Tina Turner," she said.

Chaka Chaka compared large-scale concerts of today with the shows she headlined decades ago. "I look at ‘Fill Up The Dome’, and I am like, Brenda Fassie and I filled up Venda Stadium. People came to our shows, and they paid. So it is possible to do all those things," she said.

While acknowledging her financial milestones, Chaka Chaka emphasised the importance of responsible money management. "But I can tell you, money comes and goes. Money needs to be respected. As I said, make your money work for you. Yes, be generous with your family."

She added, "Because we, as Africans, need to look out for each other. You must make sure that you invest your money."

IOL reported that the interview was part of a series exploring the relationship between music and business, aimed at helping artists and entrepreneurs manage and grow their income.

Chaka Chaka's comments offer insight into her career and commercial opportunities at a young age, having released her debut album "I’m in Love with a DJ" in 1985, which sold over 35,000 copies within two weeks.