A major meeting involving prominent U.S.-based Liberian artists, including Shine P and AK Feelingman, as well as influential managers Sonie Gr, who manages CIC, and Zawadi Em Jarnyneh, manager of JZyNo, took place yesterday. The gathering also included select organizers and top entertainers from the MTN Liberia Music Awards (MLMA), signaling a pivotal moment for the industry.
Reports indicate that the primary focus of the discussions was the potential relocation of the Liberia Music Awards back to the United States. U.S.-based artists expressed frustration, stating that since the ceremony returned to Liberia, they have felt undervalued and underrecognized despite their contributions to Liberian music from abroad.
In addition, some artists raised concerns about high collaboration fees charged by home-based performers, which they say have created significant barriers to working with local talent and developing creative partnerships.
The meeting with managers Sonie Gr and Zawadi Em Jarnyneh reportedly aimed to address these issues with key stakeholders in the Liberian entertainment industry, seeking solutions to bridge the gap between home-based and diaspora artists.
“This is an important step toward ensuring that all Liberian artists, whether at home or abroad, feel valued and supported,” a source familiar with the discussions said.
The ongoing dialogue has stirred conversations across the Liberian music scene about recognition, collaboration, and the future of the MLMA. Industry observers note that the outcomes could reshape how awards ceremonies are conducted and how the local and diaspora music communities interact.
As discussions progress, the Liberian music community remains attentive to the potential long-term implications for the industry and the visibility of Liberian artists worldwide.
The meetings have sparked conversations across the Liberian music community about recognition, collaboration, and the future of the MLMA. Observers say the outcomes could have significant implications for how the industry engages with artists outside the country and how awards ceremonies are structured going forward.
