Kao Denero is a Sierra Leonean artist hailing from the town Lungi Township, Port Loko District. He is a raw artist whose mission is not only to be authentic but to connect with his people through truths. Kao Denero is an African hip hop artist who with every project pushes the boundaries of hip hop across the African diaspora. Although this artist has many other pieces of work, the one song that captures my attention is the song called “Amara”.

The song “Amara” is a hip hop single by Kao Denero that was released in 2022. The song “Amara” talks about his rise from his somewhat limited lifestyle to a world that now feels limitless. He paints a clear picture through intentional word choice and personal stories to stress his main message that “It’s not where you started it’s where you end ” as said in his song. 

 I particularly appreciated the way the music immediately wraps you into the world that this song creates. There are moments where the consistent pattern of the main beat/melody is broken with a slower, more spacious feel that allows more in-depth and poetic delivery through just talking.  This song by Kao Denero was able to capture a very nostalgic feeling that reminded me of other OG masterpieces done by hip hop artists. Now although I am not a 90s baby, I am someone who appreciates real music and artists who passionately create through music, so I have some context and foundation of what artistry is needed to make timeless music. 

From the streets of Sierra Leone to the world Kao Denero is set to take over the African hip hop scene further pushing the narrative of African hip hop artists. He is a prime example that hip hop is a movement that is supposed to unite especially as it pertains to Africans within the diaspora. As he continues to make music like this record “Amara” he will always be part of the precious group of artists who create music that is authentic and timeless.