By: Sulaiman Stom Koroma
The musical effects from Nigeria were very quick to spill over to Sierra Leone and soon gained acceptance, especially in the early 2000s. Many artists were creating lyrics that were danced to by many and were widely accepted throughout the country.
Music has played a significant role in the country’s history and political landscape. During elections, musicians have used their platforms to raise awareness about social issues, advocate for change, and influence public opinion. Most of the music they sang were telling stories of the country and expressing the hardship that many people faced. Their music created a platform to express contemporary issues and also remind governments where they have gone wrong. From the elections of Solomon Berewa versus Ernest Bai Koroma, Ernest Bai Koroma versus Madaa Bio, to Madaa Bio versus Samura Kamara.
Many artists, including Emerson, Innocent, Chama B, Naughty Dove, and Eklass, were using music to seek change before elections. With Emmerson for example, he released politically charged songs criticizing the government and calling for better governance. His song “Borboh Bele” became an anthem in Sierra Leone, encouraging citizens to vote for change. The same was done by Eklass and Naughty Dove in their album “Udat we go put now ba”. Innocent and Chama B also got an anthem in 2007- ‘Notice.’ Many believed that their songs have helped mobilize and inspire people to change governments or politicians who have not delivered on their mandates. Artists in Sierra Leone often use their lyrics and performances to address corruption, injustice, and inequality, making them powerful voices for social and political change during elections.
Now, the Kenema Boys are also making headlines in the political and music industry. It is difficult to see artists singing against political parties from the same political line, expressing their frustration about bad governance, lack of jobs, inequality, and the rising cost of basic food Commodities. Before the elections, most of the artists based in the East and Southern provinces have been supporting the current SLPP government- singing songs during the campaign, calling on voters to vote for the current President. Now, hearing songs from Kenema-based artists, the stronghold of the government, criticizing them, is surely baffling.
In recent times, contemporary Sierra Leonean artists have continued to address pressing issues such as youth unemployment, healthcare, and education, through their music. They shed light on real-time issues that spark conversations and inspire action among voters for sound decisions during elections. To many, the song from the Kenema Boys is not a surprise, as things are difficult, many people go to bed with worms and wake up with Give me. Getting a meal per day will cost them everything they’ve earned the whole day.
While music alone may not directly cause changes in government, it can raise awareness, spark conversations, and motivate citizens to demand from their leaders and make the necessary changes they want.
Would songs from the Kenema Boys have any impact in the next elections?