American rapper and streamer DDG, real name Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., ignited online debates by asserting that content streamers rake in more cash than traditional musicians, drawing from his dual career experiences.
During a January 2026 livestream with Nigerian creator Carter Efe, the 28-year-old who launched as a YouTuber in 2014 before hitting music fame with 2017's "Givenchy" declared, "Streaming pays more than music. For real, streamers make more money than artistes." He highlighted Twitch earnings like his top-10 status with 40,000 subscribers at $7 each, contrasting music's tougher payouts
DDG's perspective stems from navigating both worlds: early viral videos led to music deals, but he credits streaming's direct fan monetization over label-dominated artist revenue streams. His recent Nigeria trip, including meets with Wizkid and Burna Boy, amplified the clip amid his safety praises for the country over U.S. gun violence.
Nigerians and global fans split between agreement and skepticism, flooding clips with memes.
- "DDG spilling facts! Music industry thieves vs streamer bags 😂" – Supporters nodding to direct subs vs royalties.instagram
- "Cap! Top rappers like Drake print money, streamers beg for donations" – Critics citing elite artist wealth.x
- "Carter Efe featuring DDG = confirmation Nigeria owns streaming now" – Local pride in the collab. The claim trended, sparking talks on creator economy shifts.promptnewsonline+1