Country Star Dustin Lynch Reveals The Cost of Appearing on Late Night TV: ‘An Arm and a Leg’

Dustin Lynch is revealing all of the costs that come with appearing on live television, especially with late-night programs and award shows.

“I love the award shows,” Lynch, 39, said during the Monday, April 27, episode of the “Trading Secrets” podcast, but added, “You don’t get paid, not directly.”

“Awards shows cost a lot of money to be a part of them,” Lynch continued. “I’m not picking out what I’m wearing on a red carpet, you know? So, I’m paying stylists, I’m paying whatever that suit costs to wear. Hair and makeup if you’re on TV, that’s a must. And then you’ve got, for me, I’m paying a security guy whatever airfare and hotel. Ground transportation.”

The “Party Mode” singer went on to say that it was the “same with late night television” in terms of cost Lynch has performed on late night shows such as Conan and Jimmy Kimmel Live! as well as morning shows like Today.

“Late night television costs an arm and a leg,” Lynch explained. “Morning television costs an arm and a leg. It’s all marketing expenses. Back in the day, when we were playing late night TV, it was like $30,000-$35,000 out of pocket.”

While performers don’t have to pay to get on these shows, it still presents multiple expenses for the artist to pay themselves. However, Lynch said he “for sure” sees a return on the investment, though it doesn’t happen right away.

“It’s building blocks,” the country star explained. “Unless you’re Chris Stapleton — if you have a Stapleton moment at the CMAs [in 2015] where he literally changed the face of country music and his life with ‘Tennessee Whiskey.’ That performance? That one worked. But I think it’s building blocks through the years. Reminding fans that you exist, which in this day and age is impossible to do. There’s so much traffic out there.”

Lynch went on to say, “Just like any company. We’re selling a product,” adding, “These moments and these awards shows are great ways to do that.”

He continued, “Who watches awards shows? You know, the audience skews a little older, the audience is very engaged with who’s on that show. And I know for a fact that all of our super fans are watching those award shows. So, they’re big deals.”

In March, Lynch spoke exclusively to Us Weekly about his life and career, including his close friendship with fellow country music star Blake Shelton.

Last year, Shelton invited Lynch to be his opener on his Back to the Honky Tonk tour. Speaking with Us at NBC’s Opry 100: A Live Celebration on March 19, Lynch confessed that he was grateful for his busy schedule.

“I’ve been enjoying just chasing the dream and the freedom,” he said. “I’m always on the go doing something, but there’s gonna be a season for some settling down I’m sure.”