DDG Claims Streaming Pays More Than Music, Sparks Debate on Careers in Entertainment

American rapper and content creator Darryl Dwayne Granberry Jr., popularly known as DDG, has revealed that streaming is more financially rewarding than music.

Speaking during a recent livestream with Nigerian streamer Carterefe, the 28-year-old entertainer stated, “Streaming pays more than music. For real, streamers make more money than artistes.”

DDG, who began his professional music career in 2016 and rose to prominence with his hit single Givenchy from his 2017 EP Take Me Serious, also started streaming back in 2014. He eventually left Central Michigan University to focus full-time on his YouTube and streaming career.

Opinion: DDG’s statement highlights the shifting dynamics in the entertainment industry. With platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok offering monetization opportunities, content creators can now earn consistently through ads, sponsorships, and fan engagement—sometimes outpacing traditional music revenue.

However, it’s important to note that success in streaming also requires strategy, consistency, and a strong audience base, just like music. For upcoming artists and creators, DDG’s career illustrates that diversifying income streams and leveraging digital platforms can be as lucrative, if not more, than traditional paths.

This revelation may spark more conversations among musicians considering expanding into content creation, while also encouraging streamers to take pride in their craft as a serious career.