The past weeks have been nothing short of remarkable for Sierra Leone’s music scene. From groundbreaking singles to historic performances, Sierra Leonean artists are making waves both locally and internationally.
Music producer and DJ, Dito Freaky, has taken a bold step into the spotlight with his debut single, Ann Marie.
The song is a nostalgic masterpiece, cleverly sampling the iconic African hit Mario by Congolese musician Franco, popular in the 80s and 90s. Dito’s genius lies in his ability to merge the timeless essence of old-school African rumba with contemporary rhythms, creating a track that resonates across generations. “Ann Marie” is a journey through time, blending the rich musical heritage of West Africa with modern beats that are sure to get everyone dancing.
Next up is Tar1k, whose single Alima has captivated audiences with its genuine and emotional expression.
His delivery was so authentic that it sparked a flurry of conspiracy theories and unsolicited advice from friends and fans! In response to what inspired him to write Alima, Tar1k says he’d been thinking about creating a song about a “defined female subject”, reminiscent of older Sierra Leonean music traditions, characterised by emotional depth and vibrant energy. The result is Alima, a song that taps into a “mix of hurt, longing, ego and anger”, painting a picture that represents Sierra Leonean love songs from a bygone era.
Drawing a connection between Tar1k’s “Alima” and Dito’s “Ann Marie,” one might jest that Sierra Leonean women have been muses since the beginning of time, inspiring countless hits and heartfelt lyrics. Classics like Jimmy B’s “Khadija”, Dry Eye Crew’s “Mabinty”, Alonzo’s “Mariama”, Emmerson’s “Elizabeth”, all from the 2000s, further prove how the charm and mystique of Sierra Leonean women continue to inspire and shape the nation’s music scene. Keep up the good work ladies!
Speaking of Emmerson, he has once again proven why he is the GOAT! Emmerson performed his most recent single Strawberries on Ice, featuring Nigerian megastar Davido, at a pre-event showcase for the 2024 BET Awards in Los Angeles, USA. His collaboration with Davido and another song, Stick to the Plan, with American artists Lola Brooke and Howard Hewett, signify his foray into the broader African market and world stage. Emmerson’s journey is a testament to his relentless dedication and talent, making Sierra Leone proud with every note.
Adding to the list of historic achievements is Drizilik, who has become the first Sierra Leonean artist to host a live music concert at the iconic Howard Theatre in the US. Drizilik headlined a star-studded lineup of emerging talent and household names in the Sierra Leone music industry, accompanied by the Freetown Uncut Band. Hundreds of Afrobeats and hip-hop lovers from Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond came out to celebrate Sierra Leone’s best musicians from Freetown and the DMV. This milestone is not just a personal triumph but a defining moment for Sierra Leonean music, signalling our growing influence and reach in the global music arena.
The music scene in Sierra Leone is rapidly evolving, fostering a growing community of creatives and expanding spaces where artists can collaborate and perform. Artists now have greater opportunities to produce high-quality music and reach wider audiences through digital platforms. However, as the industry grows, creating an environment where artists can refine their talent and skills, and navigate the complexities of the music business will be crucial for sustained success.
In this evolving landscape, the refurbishment of the Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts comes at the right time. Established in 1995, Ballanta Academy is the oldest music learning institution in the country, and it has recently reopened its doors to the public with exciting new developments. New courses aimed at enhancing professional development in music, dance, theatre arts, and film production will soon be available, providing a solid foundation for aspiring artists.
The past weeks have indeed held golden moments for Sierra Leone music. As artists continue to break new ground and push boundaries, they inspire a new generation of musicians to dream bigger and reach higher. We can absolutely look forward to an era of growth and opportunity for musicians and a thriving future for Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry.
Antonia Howard 
Leave a comment