In recent reports, KRG The Don, a renowned rapper from Kenya, has declared his intention to impose a fee of Ksh 250,000 (approximately $2,400) for an Instagram follow back, stirring up a wave of controversy and criticism from both fans and detractors.
Some argue that KRG The Don is justified in charging for his time and attention, given his busy schedule as a prominent artist with a substantial following. They contend that managing a personal follow back for every fan may be impractical, and as a business owner, KRG The Don should be free to capitalize on his social media presence in any way he deems fit.
Conversely, opponents assert that the steep fee is unjust and beyond the financial reach of many of his followers, particularly the young, working-class demographic. They highlight that KRG The Don’s success is indebted to his fans, making the decision to charge them for a follow back appear ungrateful and avaricious.
In my perspective, KRG The Don’s choice to monetize a follow back is misguided and detrimental to his rapport with fans. While acknowledging his entitlement to monetize social media, it is crucial for him to weigh the consequences on his followers. The exorbitant fee effectively alienates a significant portion of his fan base from engaging with him on social platforms, potentially fostering feelings of exclusion and resentment. This, in turn, could inflict damage on his reputation and career trajectory.
In conclusion, while recognizing KRG The Don’s right to charge for his time and attention, the decision to demand Ksh 250,000 for an Instagram follow back is deemed unjust and jeopardizes his connection with fans. Artists should be mindful of the repercussions their actions may have on followers, aiming to sustain a positive and accessible relationship.
