Emmerson Reveals Sierra Leonean Musical Heroes Who Shaped His Career

Sierra Leonean music icon Emmerson Bockarie recently shared the story of his rise to fame, revealing the local artists who inspired him to launch his career.

In a social media interview, Bockarie recalled that his journey began in 2001, just after the country’s civil war.

According to Emmerson, he was motivated to become a musician after seeing artists like K Man, Yok7, Daddy Saj, Willy Jay, and Jimmy B making a name for themselves in the industry.

He gave special praise to Jimmy B, whom he credited with revolutionizing Sierra Leone’s music scene by introducing computer-based recording. At the time, most artists were still using analog systems.

Inspired by this new digital approach, Emmerson and a friend sought out Jimmy B, hoping to be featured on a compilation album. While that initial attempt was unsuccessful, it led them to producer King Fisher. For eight months, Emmerson visited King Fisher’s studio, observing other artists record their music. He admitted that he almost gave up during this period, but pushed himself to continue.

His big break finally came when another artist, Shine D God Son, was recording a rap song and needed someone to sing the chorus. Emmerson, feeling a surge of confidence, volunteered and landed the part, marking the beginning of his own successful music career.