LIBERIAN ENTERTAINMENT
Here we are weeks after the most talked about events held in Monrovia, the Wiz Kid and Timaya show, sponsored by Sound City and Novaphone . Many opinions and views have been floating around the worldwide web, by supporters and non-supporters . Whilst some may see these events to be an accomplishment for Liberians and a Gateway to numerous opportunities etc. At LSV , we believe these event are a wake up call, that WE as citizens have to take charge of our progressing entertainment industry . As the popular Liberian saying goes " The street wouldn't buy you , if your family doesn't sell you ". It is time to face the truth, in regards to the mismanagement and exploitation of the entertainment sector within the country.
Liberia is a low income country that relies heavily on foreign assistance, the Civil war destroyed much of the economy. It was reported that an average Liberian lives on 1 USD ( US Dollar ) a day , which totals to about 80 Liberian Dollars. Despite the organizers and foreign musicians walking away with HUGE profits ( allegedly more than 60,000 thousand US Dollars), Liberian based musicians are treated like second class citizens during these shows , with most artists walking away with 150 US Dollars or more if lucky. As a Liberian Entertainment media company , we have to think logically by reviewing the Pros and Cons of having foreign involvement within Liberian entertainment. Especially due to their involment not being a form of investment .
What are their Intentions ? besides bringing Live music to the people. The choice is ours to ignore what could later be harmful to the establishment of our own entertainment Industry. Attending a show held on such a grand scale would mean; the locals are ultimately sacrificing five days worth of food money, with no job prospect after the excitement wear off. We have no interest in playing the ' blame game ' however we do wonder , Could these shows be another ' business ' to milk the system and to take full advantage of our country misfortune ? .
Especially in these trying times , when the nation is just about keeping its head above water . Not forgetting the past and the affects of the gruesome war, which saw Many foreign businesses fleeing the country, taking capital and expertise with them. Are we as Liberians to be blamed for allowing such?
Rebuilding infrastructure and raising incomes will depend on financial and technical assistance from donor countries and foreign investment in key sectors. However there have no efforts from its sponsors/host to promote Liberian music and artists, prior to the show and after in Nigeria. Collaborations between mainstream artist and our Liberia Stars are yet to be made . In conclusion to Sound City's sudden interest in Liberian entertainment , I would like to know what exactly is in it for the people and liberian artists ? . WHAT ABOUT LIBERIA ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY ; have we been so blinded by the excitement of hosting mainstream foreign stars on our land , that we are neglecting Mama Liberia aspirations. Much attention , work and investment is needed to build our own industry and to also encourage our Artists . We hope Nigeria will one day welcome our LIB STARS with open arms and allow us to take home, what we have earned . |
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