Top 7 songs of 2017: Sierra Leone

1. 'Thop!' – KME (Kracktwist & Samza)

Nigeria has 'Wo!'; Salone has 'Thop!'. Naughty lyrics ("nain se I wantam dae" [she says she wants it in there]), naughtier lyrics ("ar get mi ionrod") and the naughtiest lyrics (censored to avoid obscenity charges) made this song especially loved by the youth.

2. 'Kam Ya' – KME All Stars

Also from the KME record label. With soft trumpets and heart warming lyrics, 'Kam Ya' is a lot more loving and caring than 'Thop!'.

3. 'Hold Somebody' – Arkman

Rrrakak! Arkman has one of the most distinctive voices of the nation. He keeps his rrrr’s and nyakak’s to a minimum on this track, but they still add to the punch of this vibey song.

4. 'Brighter Future' – Famous

Famous dropped his album this year. You cannot be in a taxi without hearing 'Brighter Future' at least once. It’s the new Milo jazz at its best.

5. 'Di Mami I Moni Fo Komot' – Drizilik

This one is for the hip-hop lovers. Drizilik describes some of the familiar daily scenes and struggles in Freetown. Backed up by one of producer Solo’s fusion beats.

6. 'Shh' – Yung Sal

The best lyrics of the year. Period.

7. 'Bingo' – K-Man

Smooth beat, catchy melody and autotuned voice. Oh, and let’s not forget easily comprehensible lyrics.