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.

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.