The wait is finally over. After a strategic one-year hiatus, the most anticipated ranking in Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry has returned—bigger, sharper, and more comprehensive than ever before.

The year 2025 has been a defining era of resilience and global exportation for Salone music. From the outset of the year until now, we have witnessed our sound break new boundaries. From artists dominating international tours to the rise of viral sensations who captured the streets, the competition for the top spot has never been fiercer.

Sierraloaded is proud to present the 20 Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone (2025 Edition). This list remains an undiluted assessment of the industry, meticulously documenting the last 12 months. We have looked beyond the noise to identify the true movers of the culture—evaluating musical impact, digital footprint across all major streaming platforms, offline reach, and brand value.

This isn’t just a ranking; it is a celebration of the voices that defined the year. As we countdown from December 10 to the grand reveal of the #1 Artiste on December 30, we invite you to join the debate using #SaloneHottest.

The stage is set. The music has been heard. Here are the exceptional individuals who ruled the year.


Famous – #4

Securing the #4 spot is the industry’s most consistent hit-maker and live performer, Frederick Dapaye Peters, universally known as Famous. In a career that has spanned over a decade, Famous spent 2025 proving that his longevity is powered by an unmatched ability to evolve and dominate.

Famous entered the year on a high note, fueled by a groundbreaking partnership that set the tone for his 2025 dominance. Just prior to the start of the year, he unveiled a “multi-billion” deal with BSK Music/TV. This lucrative collaboration provided the strategic backing for his massive activities throughout the year, allowing Famous to execute projects at a standard rarely seen in the industry and setting a new benchmark for how local talent can be empowered.

With this powerhouse support, Famous delivered his standout single, “No Pressure” which resonated deeply with the nation, offering a smooth Afro-fusion sound coupled with motivational lyrics that spoke to the hustle of every Sierra Leonean. The track didn’t just gain traction; it became a philosophy for his fans, dominating streaming platforms and radio airwaves alike.

But 2025 wasn’t just about local dominance. Famous took his brand global, achieving a historic sweep at the Sierra Leone Music Awards (SLMA) held in the United States. He walked away with the night’s biggest honors, including Best Artist, Best Album, and Best Music, validating his status as an international ambassador for Salone music.

Back home, Famous remained the “King of the Stage.” He was a fixture on virtually every major headline show, from high-profile concerts to national festivals. His ability to control a crowd is legendary, and 2025 saw him strengthening his bond with fans through electrifying performances and curated DJ mixes that kept his sound at the forefront of the culture.

As we close the year, Famous is already setting the tone for 2026. He is currently preparing to headline his own highly anticipated “No Pressure Concert” in January 2026, a massive event expected to be a milestone celebration of his latest hit and his enduring legacy.

For sweeping international awards, delivering the year’s most relatable anthem, and remaining the country’s most dependable crowd-puller, Famous is the 4th Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone 2025.