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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.
Kao Denero – #2
Occupying the #2 spot is the “Last King” himself, Amara Dennis Turay, popularly known as Ambassador Kao Denero. In 2025, Kao proved that wearing a suit in the office doesn’t mean you can’t wear the crown in the streets.
Despite his demanding role as Ambassador for Investment and Entertainment, Kao Denero executed one of the most strategic musical campaigns of his career. Following the success of his Heroes album, he reunited the legendary Black Leo family for the massive compilation project “All Game Final,” released in October 2025. This project wasn’t just an album; it was a cultural reset. The lead single featuring K-Rap, Medlenero, Rap Gee, and Miko D Don became a certified street anthem, while the “Leo Cypher” reminded everyone why Black Leo remains the most feared lyrical squad in the game.
He also delivered a historic moment of unity with the single “Living Legends,” released in January 2025, bringing together hip-hop titans Supa Laj and Paradise Black. It was a masterclass in maturity and legacy.
Kao’s dominance extended far beyond the recording booth. He was the industry’s “Most Valuable Feature,” lending his verse to hits like “Like A Star” by I-Tribe, “Not New” by Medee T, and “Unstoppable” by Jakey Jake.
On the international stage, he brought hardware home. Kao Denero defeated continental giants like Sarkodie and Khaligraph Jones to win “Best Male Hip-Hop/Rap Artist” at the African Golden Awards in the United States. Domestically, he secured “Hip-Hop Artist of the Year” at the National Social Awards, proving his reign is undisputed.
From touring Kono and Pujehun to headlining the EHYOR Festival and speaking at the Salone Civic Festival, Kao Denero balanced his microphone with his mandate, selling out shows while selling Sierra Leone to the world.
For serving as the bridge between the government and the ghetto, for winning continental acclaim, and for orchestrating the biggest hip-hop reunion of the decade, Kao Denero is the 2nd Hottest Artiste in Sierra Leone 2025.
