In the past, singers enjoyed popularity but received modest compensation. Legendary singers like Mohammed Rafi and Manna Dey earned only INR300 per song. However, Lata Mangeshkar’s advocacy significantly altered the landscape.

The transition from albums to YouTube and subsequently streaming services dramatically increased the value of singers. Today, top Indian singers command fees in the lakhs per song. Despite this, one individual, not even a full-time singer, surpasses them all.

A.R. Rahman is currently the highest-paid singer in India, commanding a fee of up to INR3 crore per song, according to multiple reports and industry insiders. This is 12 to 15 times the fee of any other Indian singer. Sources suggest Rahman sets this high price to deter composers from approaching him, as he prioritizes his composition work and primarily sings his own songs. However, when he does sing for others, the producer must pay this premium.

Among full-time singers, Shreya Ghoshal holds the top spot, reportedly charging INR25 lakh per song. Sunidhi Chauhan and Arijit Singh follow closely, each charging INR18-20 lakh per song.

Sonu Nigam rounds out the top five with a fee of INR15-18 lakh per song. Rapper Badshah and singer Diljit Dosanjh have recently increased their fees and may soon challenge the top five’s positions.