Pallaso reveals where the ‘real money’ is in concerts

What the report says

Ugandan singer Pallaso has outlined what he sees as the real revenue drivers behind concerts, arguing that ordinary gate collections are only one part of the picture. In comments published by Sqoop Uganda, he said ticket money from general admission can be quickly absorbed by production costs, service providers and statutory obligations such as taxes to the Uganda Revenue Authority, meaning it should not automatically be treated as an artist’s profit.

Pallaso’s view shifts attention toward premium tables, sponsorships and the wider business networks around an event. He said artists with strong personal and professional connections can earn more by selling expensive tables to friends, supporters and business associates, while keeping entry prices lower to attract larger crowds. He also suggested that sponsorship deals can add a further layer of income beyond what is collected at the gate.

The article places his remarks in Uganda’s ongoing debate over concert pricing, where performers are often criticized either for charging too little or for not valuing their shows highly enough. Pallaso’s argument is that a concert should be planned as a broader commercial package, with the general ticket serving mainly to fill the venue and premium experiences generating the larger returns. The comments reflect a common entertainment-industry principle: event profitability often depends on the full mix of sales, partnerships and audience reach rather than entrance fees alone.