FULL LIST: The 20 Hottest Artistes in Sierra Leone 2023

The year 2023 has been an interesting one for Sierra Leone’s music and Entertainment Industry.

From the outset of January until the present, this vibrant sector has witnessed an influx of new and talented artists, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s music landscape.

Some have made a lot of noise with their music, but only a handful of artistes had us putting their songs on repeat, making noise when a song came on and made a serious impact during the aforementioned time.

Sierraloaded, Sierra Leone’s leading platform re-introduced the “Hottest Artiste List” back in 2021. This annual tradition offers an unfiltered assessment of the artists who have not only shaped but also defined the musical landscape of Sierra Leone throughout the year.

Empress Pee – #20

Philka Tenneh Kamara, fondly known as Empress Pee, shines as a remarkable female rapper hailing from the vibrant music landscape of Sierra Leone. Adorned with a slew of prestigious awards, she holds a distinguished position as one of the country’s most eminent female artists.

Under the banner of Reems Entertainment, Empress Pee has crafted an illustrious artistic journey, cementing her place as a prominent figure within Sierra Leone’s dynamic entertainment scene.

Ridding off the success of her 2022 collaboration with Nigerian Superstar Teni, Empress P kicked off 2023 with the release of “Pressure,” a compelling track featuring the talents of M.I.C and MC Caro, a renowned Liberian singer and songwriter. This collaboration not only highlights her ability to weave together diverse musical styles but also underscores her penchant for crafting engaging and resonant compositions.

Further solidifying her mark on the industry, Empress Pee joined forces with the renowned music group LXG on the track “Dem Say.” This collaboration stands as a testament to her versatility and her capacity to seamlessly blend her rap skills with the dynamic sounds of other talented artists. Like that was not enough, Empress Pee was enlisted on Wisher Baby’s debut single “Over Taking” and Bed J’s ‘If’.

Empress Pee’s consistent ability to deliver captivating music and her aptitude for collaboration across boundaries not only showcases her prowess as a rapper but also underscores her commitment to pushing the boundaries of Sierra Leonean music.

As her contributions continue to elevate the country’s musical identity on both local and international platforms, let’s celebrate her place as the #20 Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone 2023.

Speedo’o – #19

Sahr B. Kaimachiande, known by his electrifying stage name, Speedo’o, has emerged as one of West Africa’s most rapidly ascending rap artists, swiftly becoming synonymous with African hip-hop.

In the past year, Speedo’o carved his place into Sierra Leone’s entertainment roster, standing out as the country’s new school rap sensation.

This young rapper’s prowess extends beyond mere creation; his level of lyricism, versatility, and flexibility mark him as a multi-talented force in the music scene. Often hailed as the bar-king, Speedo’o has set standards soaring high above his contemporaries within a remarkably short span since entering the music industry.

2023 proved to be another milestone year for Speedo’o as he collaborated with the legendary and illustrious rapper, Shadow Boxxer, on a track titled “Fame,” showcasing his ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with the icons of the genre.

Not content with just one release, Speedo’o further solidified his presence with another banging track titled “Mood,” reaffirming his knack for delivering chart-topping hits consistently. He further went to release “My Hood” and was enlisted on Xzu-B’s Majesty Remix alongside other 10 other superstars.

His trajectory, marked by unparalleled talent and a magnetic presence, has placed Speedo’o at the forefront of West Africa’s rap scene, making him an artist to watch as he continues to redefine the essence of African hip-hop.

With more grease to his elbow, we expect Speedo’o to climb up the rank of the Hottest Artiste list in 2024. Until then, let’s celebrate his remarkable feat this year.

LXG – #18

LXG, Sierra Leone’s famous award-winning group comprises the exceptional talents of Nega Don, Pretty S, and Kass. Renowned for their exceptional sounds crafted over the years, the team’s recent releases in 2023 have silenced any doubts about their temporary absence from the spotlight.

Despite a quieter period in the last few years, LXG’s musical prowess resurfaced emphatically this year with a series of standout tracks and collaborations that reaffirm their dominance in the industry.

Their latest offering, “Na We Get D Pawer,” featuring Arkman, stands as a testament to LXG’s continued excellence, reaffirming their status as Sierra Leone’s pride in the music industry.

Teaming up with Empress P, LXG contributed to the powerful song “Dem Say,” showcasing their versatility and ability to collaborate seamlessly with other artists.

In a noteworthy collaboration with Kontri Boss on “ReBirth,” LXG’s very own Kass displayed his dynamic musical prowess on the track titled “Nobody Holy,” solidifying the group’s reputation for delivering top-notch performances.

Their presence isn’t limited to their own releases alone; LXG also lent their musical prowess to elevate other artists’ works. Their collaboration with singer-songwriter Charles Joe Koroma, known as C-Joe, on the track “Money,” has become an anthem in clubs, showcasing LXG’s ability to infuse their unique sound into diverse musical landscapes.

LXG’s return to the forefront of Sierra Leone’s music scene with these remarkable collaborations and chart-topping tracks affirms their place as a musical powerhouse, poised to continue making waves and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

MDG – #17

With his infectious energy, magnetic stage presence, and lyrical depth, MDG continues to evolve as an artist, captivating audiences worldwide with his authentic voice and unwavering passion for music.

From the vibrant streets of Freetown to the bustling metropolis of Washington D.C., Dennis Foray Bundu, aka My Dearest Gift (MDG) is a symphony of sounds reflecting his unique blend of experiences and influences.

Since 2003, MDG has honed his lyrical prowess in both English and his Native language Krio inspired by his musical idol, the legendary Michael Jackson.

In 2021, MDG was ranked the #20 on the hottest artiste list but missed out in 2022. This year, he has ascended up the ranks following an impressive 12 months with unwavering consistency and excellence in his craft. “Formality”, “Tang En Gate”, “Bad Man Warrior”, “Na Dae Oil Dae” and “All Night Long” are songs he serenaded us with throughout 2023.

His musical creations resonated globally, earning him not only a prestigious recognition award in the United States but also a unique accolade of his song being studied in a college classroom abroad.

Beyond borders, MDG showcased his musical prowess by collaborating with international talents. Notably, he shared the stage with the legendary Nigerian duo P-Square during their electrifying live concert in the US, leaving an indelible mark on the audience with his captivating performance.

In June, MDG revolutionized the music scene with his new song, “Na Dae Oil Dae.” Since its debut, “Na Dae Oil Dae” received airplay and success. The ear-pleasing sound of “That is where the Oil is” is ideal for allowing people to appreciate MDG’s lyrical skill.

Without an iota of doubt, MDG has earned a well deserving #17 spot among the 20 Hottest Artistes in Sierra Leone 2023.

Emmerson – #16

Actor, Singer and Songwriter, Amidu Bockarie popularly known as Emmerson is one of Sierra Leone’s finest artiste and globally adored music superstar, who waves throughout Africa and the world, between his native Afro-life styled lyrics and classic Sierra Leonean tunes.

Emmerson leads in the transformation of music in Sierra Leone with almost two decades of being a major voice for social change. However, the Sugar Entertainment Boss has drawn criticisms to himself from many in Sierra Leone for his quiet stance during the nation’s recent political upheavals.

Having relocated to the United States in 2021, Emmerson’s consistency may have wavered, but this year, he surprised fans with two stellar singles, “Make am” and “Fun”, reaffirming his mastery of melody and rhythm.

While his absence from albums, stage performances, collaborations, and endorsements might suggest a shift in focus, Emmerson’s impact on the Sierra Leonean music landscape remains undeniable. His name, etched in the hearts of music lovers, continues to resonate, solidifying his position as the 16th hottest artiste in Sierra Leone, 2023.

Boii – #15

Martha Moimanya Fahnbulleh Koroma popularly known as Boii is a young female musician signed to Cribs International record label. Her rise to fame began earlier in 2023 with the release of her hit single ‘Credit Alert’

Prior to her signing with Cribs, Boii Martha debuted under the KME musical group with a collaborative track called ‘Never Enough’ and was also lucky to get a co-sign from Masterkraft, one of Africa’s top producers who was privileged to hear her while handling some projects for the label.

Since the snippet was released in March, ‘Credit Alert‘, her first project with Cribs International has continued to grow popular among Sierra Leonean audiences with millions of plays worldwide. After the release of ‘Credit Alert’, streaming platform Audiomack Africa also created a special cover featuring the talented singer.

In addition to her music endeavors, Boii Martha is also pursuing her studies as a freshman at the Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone. This demonstrates her determination to excel both academically and artistically, showcasing her commitment to personal growth and success.

On December 15th, 2023, Boii released her second single, ‘Sangere,’ further solidifying her position as a rising force in the Sierra Leonean music scene. With more projects in the pipeline, Boii is poised to ascend the ranks in 2024, captivating audiences with her captivating melodies and infectious energy.

As she continues to hone her craft, Boii’s name is sure to become synonymous with musical excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Sierra Leonean music and beyond.

Incredible JJ – #14

From the vibrant streets of Kenema in Sierra Leone emerges a new musical sensation, none other than James Junior Kaisama, now hailed as the sensational Incredible JJ.

This emerging music prodigy from Eastern Sierra Leone possesses an extraordinary voice destined to captivate audiences not just locally but on a global scale. In a recent freestyle video, Incredible JJ passionately shared his aspirations of not only showcasing his musical talents in Freetown but also on the world stage.

JJ made his impactful entry into the music scene with “Jonjomi,” more than just a song—it’s an infectious invitation. Meaning “vibe” in local dialect, the track serves as a magnetic call to the dance floor, promising an exhilarating journey filled with Afrobeat rhythms that ignite ecstasy and fervor among listeners.

Solidifying his position in the industry, the new sensation collaborated with one of Sierra Leone’s hottest musicians, Drizilik, on the hit song titled “Freetown.” This collaboration has become the talk of the town, marking Incredible JJ’s ascent into the music industry with a resounding impact.

Incredible JJ’s rise marks a promising journey for Sierra Leonean music, showcasing raw talent, vibrant energy, and an unyielding determination to carve a significant place in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.

Watch out for this rising star as he continues to spread his unique sound and charisma across the musical landscape.

Innocent Kuti – #13

Prince Kuti George, popularly known as Innocent is a cut out from a different cloth. His music, his brand, and his artistry are all distinct, resonating with the times and seasons. His socially conscious lyrics, melodic flows, and genre-bending versatility have captivated audiences worldwide.

In 2023, his single “Notice Reloaded” ignited political fervor as the campaign anthem for the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party. His other singles, “That Boy From Kissy,” “I’ve Got Your Back,” and “E Sawa,” the latest Sierra Leonean slang, have further cemented his status as a legendary musical force.

Innocent’s artistic prowess in 2023 extended beyond his own work, as he has collaborated with Jooel on “April Fool” and Bed J on “Saful Saful.” His global reach also culminated to performances in the United States and Germany.

In January 2023, Innocent proudly became a British citizen, just five years after relocating from Sierra Leone. To honour his outstanding contribution to the music industry, he was recently awarded in the All Works of Life (AWOL) UK Awards 2023. This accolade not only celebrates his multifaceted talent but also underscores his unwavering dedication to the craft that defines him.

Kaley Bag – #12

Meet Tanba Mbayo, better known by his stage name Kaley Bag, a dynamic Afro Beat/Hip-Hop artist and accomplished songwriter. Born and raised in the culturally rich city of Bo, Kaley Bag has emerged as a significant contributor to the music and entertainment scene in Sierra Leone.

In a major musical stride, Kaley Bag unveiled his latest masterpiece in the form of an album titled “Walk With Kaley” on October 21, 2023. This highly anticipated album showcases the artist’s versatile talent, featuring a collection of 18 captivating songs that span the realms of Afro Beat and Hip-Hop genres.

What sets “Walk With Kaley” apart is not only the artist’s distinctive style but also the impressive collaborations with some of Sierra Leone’s prominent musicians. The album boasts stellar features from industry heavyweights such as Drizilik, Joel, Adefega, Xzu-B, Fantancee Wiz, Swadu, Duzzi, Paris Gold, and Jessie Jozzy.

Kaley Bag’s unique blend of Afro Beat and Hip-Hop influences, coupled with the synergy of these collaborations, has resulted in a musical journey that resonates with diverse audiences. The album is receiving widespread acclaim for its rich production, meaningful lyrics, and the seamless integration of various musical elements.

As Kaley Bag continues to make waves with “Walk With Kaley,” he solidifies his position as a rising star in Sierra Leone’s music scene. Fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this talented artist, confident that his musical prowess will continue to shape and elevate the country’s entertainment landscape.

Kontri Boss – #11

Edward Wright, widely known as Kontri Boss, stands out as a multifaceted force shaping the industry. A Songwriter, Reality TV Star, Musician, and former member of the acclaimed 441 musical group, Kontri Boss has left an indelible mark on the nation’s musical landscape in 2023.

At the forefront of his achievements is the release of his latest album, “Rebirth,” setting a new benchmark for international standards. Kontri Boss’s musical prowess has not only entertained but also significantly contributed to the growth of Sierra Leone’s entertainment and music sector.

Notably, he has lent his songwriting skills to numerous hit songs, becoming a behind-the-scenes catalyst for the success of fellow musicians. This year saw Kontri Boss collaborate with renowned artists, featuring Boss LAJ among others in his album. The tracklist includes chart-topping hits like “My City,” showcasing his lyrical finesse and musical innovation.

One standout collaboration is “Monalisa,” a captivating piece featuring King Boss LAJ and Zainab Sheriff, demonstrating Kontri Boss’s ability to seamlessly blend talents for an unforgettable musical experience. Additionally, the track “Butterfly,” featuring Colabo, adds another dimension to his diverse portfolio.

Kontri Boss’s journey in 2023 has been characterized by creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to elevating Sierra Leonean music onto the global stage. As fans eagerly anticipate more from this versatile artist, the impact of “Rebirth” and its stellar lineup of tracks solidify Kontri Boss’s position as a driving force in the nation’s vibrant entertainment tapestry.

Boss La – #10

In 2023, Alhaji Amadu Bah, widely known as Boss LA has left an indelible mark on Sierra Leone’s musical landscape through his momentous contributions despite spending the entirety of the year at the Pademba Road Prison.

On the 1st of January, Boss La kicked off the year with the release of “We Dae Yae,” a collaboration featuring Alonzo and Abizzy. This track set the tone for a year filled with musical prowess and collaborative efforts.

May 4th saw the unveiling of “Blessings,” another noteworthy addition to Boss La’s discography. The artist continued his productive streak on April 30th with the release of “Gron Get Yai,” featuring Mellon Seven. Each release showcased Boss La’s versatility and ability to collaborate with diverse talents.

September 24th marked the unveiling of “Say No to Kush,” a track where LAJ joined forces with his prison friends. This particular collaboration not only highlighted his musical skills but also shed light on the importance of saying no to drugs abuse especially during the moment when Sierra Leone is facing drugs (kush) abuse among youth and camaraderie.

Boss La’s influence extended beyond his solo projects, as he became a sought-after collaborator for fellow artists. Notably, he lent his talents to songs by artists like Kontri Boss, further solidifying his role as a significant figure in Sierra Leone’s music scene.

Alhaji Bah’s journey in 2023 exemplifies a year of musical innovation, collaboration, and social resonance, showcasing his commitment to the growth and vibrancy of Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry.

I-Tribe – #9

Meet Leonard Francis Massaquoi, the emerging sensation illuminating Sierra Leone’s entertainment landscape under the stage name “I-Tribe.” Renowned as a multifaceted artist, I-Tribe’s prowess spans singing, songwriting, composing, performing, and overall entertainment.

Distinguishing himself with a distinctive musical blend of R&B and Afrobeat, I-Tribe offers a refreshing and captivating experience to his audience. The ‘I’ in his stage name symbolizes “Incredible,” positioning him within a tribe of artists celebrated for their diverse musical talents.

In the year 2023, I-Tribe unleashed a series of musical gems to solidify his position in the industry. Collaborating with fellow Sierra Leonean artists, he contributed to notable tracks, including “Happy Independence Day,” “Take It” featuring Star Zee, “Dem Nor Know” featuring Drizzy Murder, “Bad Man Killer” featuring Bed J & Strokes and “Down” featuring Kracktwist and Samza.

On an individual level, he released “JoJo,” “Nobody.” and “Bad Character”. These releases not only showcase his versatility but also underscore his collaborative spirit within the vibrant Sierra Leonean music community.

Rapidly ascending to prominence, I-Tribe has swiftly become one of Sierra Leone’s most brilliant and promising artists. With a commitment to astonish and delight his growing fanbase, he stands as a beacon for the future of Sierra Leone’s music scene, promising a bright and exciting trajectory. In December 2023, Cribs International enlisted his vocal prowess in two of its December “Salone No Dey Dull” album alongside the likes of Masterkraft, Mello-Seven, I-Tribe & Kontri Boss.

As I-Tribe continues to carve his path, his musical journey becomes synonymous with the rising vibrancy and potential of Sierra Leone’s music landscape, promising an era filled with innovative sounds and exciting prospects.

Samza – #8

Frank Samza Serry, better known as Samza, stands as a luminary figure within Sierra Leone’s vibrant music sphere. A multifaceted artist, he’s not only an award-winning rapper and skilled songwriter but also an adept executive producer, accountant, and enterprising entrepreneur.

His journey into the music realm sprouted from Saint Augustine in Tintafor Lungi, where he honed his academic prowess and discovered his knack for rhymes and beats. Venturing into NJALA University, Samza’s passion for music ignited, dominating rap battles and ascending to fame with his irresistible Krio style, a collaboration with his close friend Kracktwist, further elevating his profile.

The pinnacle came with his signing to the prestigious KME label, birthing chart-topping hits like “Thop” and collaborating with local stars and international artists.

However, the narrative shifted when Samza branched into a solo career, after a split with his long time music partner Kracktwist.

This year he released The “On God” album which marks his first solo act, after sharing a long journey with fellow rapper, Kracktwist

The On God” album, a 15-track opus that signifies his individual musical evolution post-partnership with Kracktwist features a blend of collaboration from local talent and an international flair, showcasing his diverse musical palette.

The rapper made a total of seven collaborations on the album, featuring Terror D in the songs titled “See”, “Behind the Scene” together with Menace D General, “Take It” a collaboration with Markmuday, “Something” featuring Pitwizzy, “Girls” together with Jooel, “Put U Body” collaborating with Mello Seven and including one international feature, Zimbabwe’s Kuda MIC on the song titled “Go Big”.

Despite separation from his musical companion after their sojourn in Australia, Samza continues to make waves from his current base in Perth, Western Australia. His collaborative spirit and dedication to crafting meaningful music reflect his enduring impact and enduring legacy within Sierra Leonean entertainment.

Arkman – #7

Abdul Razak Kanu or ‘Arkman’ as He is largely called has enjoyed a fairly spectacular 2023. Since his breakthrough hit “Vanity” in 2016, Arkman has not relented in his quest to delivering good music and this has earned him a feat of becoming the first musician from Salone to break international limits and carry the Sierra Leonean music globally.

His influence this year spreads outside the music circles, as he also impacted immensely on communities around Sierra Leone. Last year, he was also involved in the distribution of food stuffs to the poor and his partnership with the Legal Aid Board and National Youth Commission culminated into a free musical concert for children at the Freetown Amusement Park.

On the tour scene, the Arkman Music Boss expanded his reach by travelling to the United States of America to perform in one of the biggest music festivals in America, the One Salone Music Festival. This incredible festival combines the best big-name international artists with local acts, introducing a new crowd to fusion Afrobeats and African musicians mixing hip-hop, pop, rock and other genres with their culture and heritage.

We’re not forgetting Arkman’s Hit Single “Freedom”, a song which spreads like a bush fire with over 10,000 plays on Audio Mack in Three Days, and every corner in Freetown. The song chronicles the rising cost of basic commodities and hardship in Sierra Leone.

Nothing more can be used to describe an amazing year – hit songs, tours and great successes like that which Arkman has had! There needs no question as to why the vanity crooner sits on the #7 spot among the Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone 2023!

Mello Seven – #6

Jonathan Fitzjohn, widely recognized as Mello Seven, is the embodiment of Sierra Leonean musical excellence, blending Afro-fusion rhythms with soulful melodies. Born and bred in Freetown, his journey as an artist took flight from his homeland.

His music, shaped by a diverse array of influences like John Legend, Chris Brown, Davido, Famous, and Emmerson Bockarie, reflects a fusion of cultures and sounds, distinguishing him as a standout artist in the Afro-Fusion genre.

The pinnacle of his recent success is his recent EP “Kapu.” Translated from Sierra Leonean slang, “Kapu” signifies seizing opportunities, a theme resonating deeply in his music. This single swiftly ascended to fame, securing the second spot on Audiomack’s list of Sierra Leone’s top songs trailing just behind Adfega’s “Compound.”

Since his debut in 2018, Mello Seven has been a force in the music scene, earning a NEA nomination and winning a SLAAM award for his incredible contributions. Songs like “Personal Posin,” “Pain,” “The Map,” and “Amapiano” have solidified his position as a rising star, while recent hits like “Smile,” “Gron get Yai,” “Na We Geh,” and “Komort Beyen Me” have propelled him to the top of charts.

His collaboration prowess shines through collaborations with renowned acts such as Drizilik, Shadow Boxxer, Jooel, and notably, his standout feature alongside Boss La in the chart-topping “GRON GET YAI.”

In addition to “Kapu,” Mello Seven graced audiences with “Na We Geh,” part of his latest EP, further solidifying his presence in the music landscape.

His collaborations and solo releases continue to captivate audiences, marking Mello Seven as a rising star and a name to watch in the vibrant world of Afro-Fusion music.

Famous – #5

Multitalented and prolific Singer, Fredrick Dapayee Peters who is popularly known as Famous is one of most revered Sierra Leonean musical talents who have consistently shown his propensity for crafting euphonious, classic songs since he came into limelight.

The Freetown based musical prodigy surges with a smooth flow of Afro-fusion magic with an awesome mix and blends of genres into Afrobeat, with his storytelling, a feel of his emotions and healing tunes to infuse hope and life into his listeners.

In 2023, Famous blessed us with his lead single “One Life” from his upcoming album which is scheduled to be released in January 2024, “One life” has become a sensational and motivational rendition within and across the shores of Sierra Leone. Famous believes that “No matter your current situation, you live only once and we should all direct our energy to be happy because conflict will never end.”

Little wonders one of Sierra Leone’s finest Female Rappers, Star Zee did a short Video on the song while in America in recognition of the artistic efforts put into delivery of the song.

The CEO of Fame Entertainment of Fame Entertainment is arguably the most endorsed Sierra Leonean Artiste. In In March 2023, he bagged an Ambassadorial deal with a Chinesse Mining Company Leone Rock Company.

With more songs expected from his One life Album, we hope Famous will not rest on his oars in delivery of infectious Afro-Pop tunes that resonates with times.

Kracktwist – #4

Ishmael Kamara, known as Kracktwist, is undeniably one of Sierra Leone’s most prominent musicians, commanding a rising influence in the entertainment scene.

Initially part of the musical duo Kracktwist & Samza alongside childhood friend Samza, their breakthrough hit “Same Life Nor More” propelled them into the entertainment industry. Signed to the prestigious Kabaka Multimedia Entertainment (KME) label, their tracks, notably ‘Thop,’ gained immense popularity nationwide in 2017/2018. Collaborating internationally with Senegalese artist Fafadi and working alongside esteemed Sierra Leonean artists like Abizzy and Shadow Boxxer, they earned accolades such as the NEA Award for Best Group in 2018.

In 2023, the duo decided to part ways for undisclosed reasons after years of releasing numerous hit songs. Kracktwist has since emerged as one of Sierra Leone’s finest rappers, known for his catchphrase “Warsasieeeeee.”

Recently, the talented rapper unveiled “Na Net,” the lead single from his upcoming EP, “46 Beach Road Lumley.” This melodious track celebrates the vibrant nightlife of the coastal country.

The highly anticipated EP, “46 Beach Road Lumley,” comprises six classic tracks. These songs hold immense significance for Kracktwist, reflecting his Sierra Leonean roots and his fusion of diverse musical genres.

Featuring tracks such as “Choices” ft MIC, “Beach Boy,” “Back in Time,” “Ar Dae,” and “Tiday 4 Tiday” ft King Piper and Dove, along with the street anthem “Na Net,” each piece narrates a unique chapter in Kracktwist’s musical journey. “46 Beach Road Lumley” holds a special place in my heart,” says Kracktwist.

As a standout Krio rapper, Kracktwist’s mastery in crafting lyrics that resonate with music lovers and his rhythmic prowess consistently keep fans eagerly awaiting his next release. His track record of hit after hit solidifies his status as one of the best in his craft.

Kao Denero – #3

Over the past two decades, Kao Denero has exemplified unparalleled consistency in the Sierra Leone music scene, consistently delivering a high caliber of music, releasing quality content almost every year.

Hailed as the King of Freetown and serving as the CEO of Black Leo Entertainment, Amara Dennis Turay, famously known as Kao Denero, stands as one of the most influential figures in Sierra Leone’s music industry. His influence extends not only across Africa but beyond its borders.

In 2023, under Kao Denero’s guidance, the Office of the Entertainment Ambassador hosted a groundbreaking National Dialogue on Entertainment at the Freetown City Hall. Additionally, he embarked on the “Meet the People” tour, gracing organized shows across various parts of the country.

Notably, in November 2023, he clinched the Best Rap Artist award at the African Entertainment Awards in the USA and was honored with the International Recognition and Legendary Award by AWOL Europe. His nomination for the esteemed AFRICAN RAP AWARDS held in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, further solidified his impact.

Throughout the year, Kao Denero continued to captivate audiences with a series of impactful releases, including “Veteran,” “Poison” featuring Kelltony (Kush Poison), “Survive” featuring Shatta Wale, and the remastered Propaganda mixtape. Notably, his politically poignant song “1961” gained immense attention during the June elections. Moreover, his unwavering support for the re-elected President of Sierra Leone was evident in his track “Upper Cut.”

Beyond his musical endeavors, Kao Denero announced plans for a groundbreaking streaming initiative aimed at fostering the growth of Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry. Amidst these achievements, he celebrated a personal milestone by tying the knot with his new wife, marking a harmonious blend of professional success and personal joy.

Kao Denero’s journey stands as a testament to unwavering dedication, artistic brilliance, and a commitment to elevating Sierra Leone’s music industry to greater heights.

Drizilik – #2

Benjamin Menelik George, famously known as Drizilik, stands tall as a multifaceted, award-winning musician from Sierra Leone, recognized for his unwavering commitment to consistently producing exceptional music.

Lauded as the king of new school music, Drizilik’s reign in the industry spans over three years, uncontested by any other artist. His unparalleled ability to seamlessly blend hip hop and Afrobeats has earned him the prestigious moniker.

This year, Drizilik marked a series of milestones that further cemented his position on the global stage. His standout achievement came at the BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher, where he proudly represented Sierra Leone, showcasing his talent to an international audience.

His accolades continue to pile up, with the SLAAM 2023 Awards recognizing him as the Best Male Artist. His association with UBA as the Leo and NexGen Retail Liabilities Product brand Ambassador further attests to his growing influence beyond the music realm.

Not confined to the music scene alone, Drizilik graced the London Fashion Week in the UK, representing the Labrum clothing line, showcasing his versatility and influence across various platforms.

Adding to his list of international appearances, Drizilik took the stage as a guest at the 2023 BET Awards, captivating audiences with his electrifying performance. In a historic moment, he collaborated with the iconic Sierra Leonean-British actor, Idris Elba, for a groundbreaking performance of the song titled ‘Ashobi’ during the Eminence Unusual concert.

“Decide,” a release earlier this year by Drizilik, pays homage to the Creator as the master planner of his life, showcasing his depth and gratitude in his music. His collaborations extend beyond established names, as evidenced by his feature in a hit track titled “Freetown” with a newcomer in the music scene.

His latest hit, “Finesse,” leads the pack on the highly anticipated Central Boy Drizla (CBD) Mixtape. This track is a vibrant fusion of infectious beats and razor-sharp lyrics, serving as a canvas for Drizilik to exhibit his unique wordplay and metaphorical prowess.

Drizilik’s meteoric rise and his relentless pursuit of musical excellence continue to reshape Sierra Leonean music, solidifying his place as an unstoppable force in the industry..

Adfega – #1

Behold the Sierra Leone Music Landlord in 2023!

Umar Baba Conteh, better known as Adfega, the rising Afro Fusion sensation from Sierra Leone. Adfega’s musical journey embodies not just his life story but also the shared struggles of humanity. Drawing from everyday experiences, his music is a tapestry of emotions, aiming to encapsulate the diverse spectrum of human feelings.

His rank on the hottest artiste list may be arguable, but what isn’t arguable is the fact that he has given us the biggest hit in Sierra Leone this year.

“COMPOUND” has taken Sierra Leone by storm, resonating deeply with audiences and opening doors to thrilling opportunities. Adfega’s music seamlessly weaves his Sierra Leonean heritage with Afro Fusion, seamlessly blending traditional instruments to create a unique sonic experience.

His upcoming project promises another chapter in his musical evolution. The eagerly awaited “Compound Festival Tour” is set to kick off, captivating audiences in Makeni, Kabala, and Freetown this December.

Starting his musical journey in Freetown at a tender age, Adfega’s sound finds inspiration in the nuances of love, hate, and the everyday struggles encountered. This has earned him the title of the “king of the new wave” in Sierra Leone’s vibrant music scene.

“Compound,” crafted by the mastermind Wilbert, has soared to become the anthem of 2023 in Sierra Leone. Its infectious amapiano sound coupled with motivational lyrics narrating tales of neighbors within the same compound has solidified Adfega’s position as a trailblazer in the musical landscape.

Adfega’s artistry and unique blend of sounds not only reflect his personal journey but also resonate deeply with audiences, elevating Sierra Leonean music onto the global stage.

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