By Mohamed J. Bah, Awoko Newspaper
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In an exciting development for Sierra Leone’s entertainment industry, four prominent Sierra Leonean musicians are preparing to embark on a tour of the United States. According to sources close to the office of the Entertainment Ambassador, the artists—Rap G, Melody, Lamson P, and Amie Kallon—have been granted visas for their upcoming journey.
This marks yet another milestone for Sierra Leonean entertainers venturing abroad to connect with the diaspora and share their talent with a broader audience. The musicians, all established names in the industry, are known for their significant contributions to the entertainment scene and have garnered a loyal following with their high-quality music.
Among the group, Amie Kallon stands out as a particularly notable figure. Born and raised in Kenema, in eastern Sierra Leone, Amie hails from the Mende ethnic group, one of the country’s largest. Known for her traditional Mende music, which includes singing in the native Mende language and performing parables and folklore, Amie is regarded as one of the most influential female musicians in Sierra Leone.
Her career began in the 1980s, and she gained prominence with her dynamic live performances featuring a full band and dancers. Amie’s music and powerful lyrics played a crucial role during the Sierra Leone Civil War (1991-2002), as she continued to produce music and voice her perspectives on the conflict.
While Amie Kallon’s inclusion in the U.S. tour has been widely celebrated, some have questioned the selection of the other artists. Nevertheless, the upcoming tour is a testament to the growing international recognition of Sierra Leonean talent and is anticipated to strengthen cultural ties and entertain audiences across the U.S. MJB/31/8/2024
