Emmerson Bockarie, the Sierra Leonean singer known for his songs about social change and government corruption, has announced he will no longer make music about political or social issues.

He shared that someone messaged him with a strong warning, saying if he kept making the kind of music he’s known for, his name could be removed from the national conversation. Emmerson said he apologized and promised his upcoming album will still connect with his Sierra Leonean fans.

Emmerson revealed that about 80% of his new album, Holy Water, will be aimed at his listeners in Sierra Leone, while the remaining 20% will target his international fans. However, he confirmed the album will not include new songs about recent political or social issues.

Born and raised in Freetown, Emmerson gained wide recognition for songs that call for social change and criticize government corruption. His 2007 hit, “Borbor Belluh” (“Pot-Bellied Boy”), highlighted issues within Sierra Leone’s leadership and built him a strong following.

Emmerson’s announcement marks a new direction for the artist, who has been a prominent voice in Sierra Leone’s music scene for years.