Veteran Sierra Leonean hip hop artist Daddy Rhymes has sparked debate within the local music industry after stating in a recent interview that “Problem,” a song by rising artist Bakitenno, does not qualify as a hit song for 2025.

Reacting to the comments, respected hip hop artist Shadow Boxxer took to social media to challenge the assertion, offering his perspective on what constitutes a hit song within the Sierra Leonean music landscape.

According to Shadow Boxxer, there is a clear distinction between a good song and a hit song. He explained that while the quality of a song is subjective and based on personal taste, a hit song is measurable and supported by evidence.

“A hit song is a fact,” he noted, adding that its impact can be proven through public acceptance and widespread play rather than individual opinion.

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Shadow Boxxer further argued that in Sierra Leone, traditional global metrics such as billboard rankings, streaming numbers, and radio airplay should not be the sole determinants of a hit record. Instead, he emphasized grassroots indicators, including heavy rotation in neighborhood bars, shops, clubs, public transport vehicles, DJ playlists, and recognition among schoolchildren.

“When a song is being played across communities, in poda poda vehicles, clubs, and social spaces, and is widely known by the people, that song is a hit,” he stated.

Using this standard, Shadow Boxxer asserted that Bakitenno’s “Problem” meets all the criteria of a hit song in the local context. He described the young artist as a major force in the current hip hop scene, suggesting that Bakitenno could play a key role in shaping the next phase of Sierra Leonean rap music.

He also acknowledged the contributions of a new generation of artists such as Samza, KrackTwist, Benji, Prodigy, Mr Best, and Yung Sal, crediting them with redefining the sound of contemporary Salone hip hop. While recognizing the influence and continued relevance of earlier artists, including Kao Denero, YOK 7, Baja, LAJ, Star Zee, and himself, Shadow Boxxer noted that younger rappers have adapted and refreshed the genre for a new audience.

Shadow Boxxer further highlighted Bakitenno, K Leb, and Stex as artists with exceptional lyrical abilities in Krio, while noting that Bakitenno’s branding and artistic direction currently give him a competitive edge.

Despite his disagreement with Daddy Rhymes’ assessment, Shadow Boxxer maintained a tone of respect, describing Daddy Rhymes as a legend and a foundational figure in Sierra Leonean hip hop. He acknowledged that while Daddy Rhymes is entitled to his opinion on whether the song appeals to him personally, declaring it not to be a hit was, in his view, incorrect.

The exchange has reignited broader conversations about how success and impact should be measured within Sierra Leone’s music industry, particularly as emerging artists continue to reshape the sound and reach of local hip hop.

Shadow Boxxer concluded his remarks by extending New Year wishes to fellow artists and fans, reaffirming his passion for hip hop and support for the growth of the genre in Sierra Leone.