Steady Bongo (born Lansana Sheriff) is one of the most famous musicians to come from my wonderful country, Sierra Leone. He was born in Daru, Kailahun district in Sierra Leone to a Mende mother and a Madingo father. He is a musician, record producer, choreographer, and dancer. His songs are always meaningful and convey various messages of hope, pride, love, and many more. Something else that I really admire about him as an artist is his real and true depiction of Sierra Leonean/African pride in his endeavors.
From an early age, he performed on stage, imitating musicians such as the legendary Big Fayia, Samile, Eric Donaldson, and Prince Nico. He hosted a program called "Variety Time" at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Service (SLBS). His first album, Ready Before You Married, was released in 1991 and became an instant success not only in Sierra Leone, but in neighbouring countries as well. His second album Kormot Bi En Me, released in 1996, received the Best Album Award and had record-breaking sales. The album was the first of Steady Bongo's records to be released on CD in the United States. In 1998, he released Welcome to Democracy Na Salone and Born For Suffer in 1999. He's one of the first musicians that popularised Sierra Leone music to the outside world.
A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending his concert and got to talk with him. I had so much fun at the concert, and getting to know him. He is an amazing performer, dancer, funny, and all-round entertainer. And of course me being the impatient dancer that I am, I had to join him up on stage when he performed one of his new songs. He's such a great sport, and I had fun dancing with him. I definitely recommend everyone to get his new album, and attend at least one of his concerts in the near future.
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