Lonestar Cell MTN, Liberia’s foremost telecommunications provider, has officially announced the nominees for the 2024 Edition of the MTN Liberian EMusic Awards (MLMA). Taking place on December 14, 2024, at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, this year’s theme, “Timeless,” highlights the significant and enduring influence of Liberian music on the global music landscape. The awards celebrate not only the artistry of local musicians but also the cultural richness they bring to the international stage. Abigail Nufeatalai, the Manager of Brand Communications at Lonestar Cell MTN, emphasized the company’s commitment to elevating Liberian music over the past seven years, noting how their partnership with the awards has contributed to giving esteem and recognition to local artists.
The 2024 MLMA promises enhanced awards and recognition for various categories, signaling an exciting year for participants and fans alike. The Artist of the Year will receive a cash prize of USD 7,000, while Song of the Year will come with a reward of USD 3,000. New Artist of the Year winners will take home USD 2,000. These substantial prizes reflect a dedication to appreciate and incentivize talent within the music industry. Chris Wolo, a renowned broadcaster and the chairman of the nomination board, discussed the meticulous nomination process, which ensures equity and transparency, highlighting the collaborative efforts among industry stakeholders, including record label executives and DJs. This ensures that nominations represent the best talents who have excelled from August 2023 to July 2024.
The nominees for the 2024 MLMA cover a wide array of categories, including Producer of the Year, Male and Female Artist of the Year, and various genres such as Gospel and Afropop. There are additional niche categories such as Traditional Gbemah Song of the Year and Hipco Trapco Artist of the Year, ensuring that the diversity of Liberian music is recognized. Noteworthy categories focusing on collaborations, albums/EPs, videos, and individual contributions reflect a holistic approach to honoring the industry’s various facets. Other significant awards include International Artist of the Year, On-Air Personality of the Year, and DJ of the Year, which illustrates the interconnectedness of the Liberian music scene with broadcasting and global influences.
Voting for the nominated artists is now officially underway, allowing fans and music enthusiasts to participate actively in the awards. Lonestar Cell MTN has effectively engaged the community in this process, fostering a sense of ownership and involvement among the audience members. This initiative not only encourages fans to support their favorite artists but also bolsters the visibility of the music industry as a whole. The use of voting as a means for community engagement emphasizes the importance of audience influence on the outcome of the awards, creating a vibrant dialogue between artists and supporters.
The “Timeless” theme encapsulates the enduring nature of music as a universal language and a cultural bridge. By celebrating music that transcends time and resonates with audiences across generations, the MLMA promotes a narrative of cultural preservation and innovation. This year’s awards seek to honor not just current trends but also the roots of Liberian music that continue to inspire newer generations. The event’s intent is to showcase the richness of Liberia’s artistic heritage while encouraging new expressions that contribute to the country’s evolving musical identity.
Overall, the upcoming MTN Liberian EMusic Awards 2024 stands as a landmark event, celebrating the growth, resilience, and rich tradition of Liberian music. Through increased prizes, a diverse range of categories, and a commitment to transparency, Lonestar Cell MTN continues to play a critical role in fostering an environment where Liberian musicians can thrive and gain recognition for their creative endeavors. As anticipation builds for the event in December, the awards not only symbolize success for the artists but also exemplify the vital role of music in uniting and inspiring communities.
