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.

The Hottest Artiste List meticulously highlights those entertainers who have achieved the most significant milestones. This includes artists who scored chart-topping hits, embarked on successful tours, made substantial moves in both the local and international music scenes, won prestigious awards, and, most importantly, the people we’ve listened to and danced to for the past 12 months.

In a year marked by artistic innovation and creative excellence, Sierra Leone’s music and entertainment industry continues to flourish, demonstrating the country’s immense talent and potential on both the national and international stages.

As the year draws to a close, Sierraloaded will systematically reveal the 20 Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone starting from December 10. As you eagerly await the unveiling, be sure you are following Sierraloaded on social media platforms to celebrate these exceptional individuals who have made this year a sonically unforgettable one.

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..