Freetown, 15th January 2026- While many musicians in Sierra Leone relocate to Freetown in search of visibility and opportunity, Yayah Wyem Muctarr, popularly known as Wyem, has chosen a different path. He remains in Bo City, the country’s second-largest urban centre, building his career while prioritizing community impact over capital-city exposure.

“I don’t want Bo City to be short of quality musicians,” Wyem said. “I want to be among the people who can influence young people in a good way.”

Wyem’s journey into music began in primary school when his elder cousin encouraged him to fill a vacant spot in the school band. At home, he improvised instruments using bowls, entertaining his sisters as they danced. By secondary school, he was writing rap lyrics and studying established artists in Bo City, learning from their performances and creative approaches.

His sound draws from diverse influences. Inspired by South African artist Shaka Bundu’s blend of singing and rap, as well as the music of 2Pac and reggae, Wyem began shaping his own identity. Exposure to American hip hop through his older brothers further guided his direction.

Although music was always present, Wyem did not initially see it as a career. That changed between 2009 and 2010, when he began working with producers in Bo City and later in Freetown. The experience marked a turning point, convincing him to pursue music seriously.

The decision was not without challenges. Raised in a religious household where music was considered forbidden, Wyem faced resistance from his family. Winning their acceptance required patience and persistence.

Over time, Wyem developed a creative process grounded in personal experience and observation. He draws inspiration from global styles and often writes alone. Some songs begin with a title, while others emerge from real-life situations involving himself or those around him.

In the studio, Wyem collaborates closely with producers, shaping his songs from beat creation to final mix. He describes his sound as dancehall rap or reggae rap, with rap serving as the foundation of every style he explores. This fusion has become known locally as “Upkotry Vybz.”

While he began strictly with hip hop, Wyem’s sound has evolved. He has recently experimented with country music, exploring how it can be blended with Sierra Leonean rap to create something new.

One of his recent releases, Na Wae Normor, tells the story of a relationship that began positively but later deteriorated. Wyem said he hopes listeners take away peace, calmness, love, and joy from his music.

Remaining in Bo City has strengthened his connection to his audience. Much of his support comes from offline listeners, particularly older residents who recognize him in public and praise his sound. At the same time, he acknowledges the importance of his growing online following.

Wyem advises young artists to remain patient, respectful, and open to learning from those who came before them. He believes his music contributes to positive change in his community and hopes to expand that influence among young people.

Looking ahead, Wyem hopes to collaborate with Nigerian star Burna Boy and Sierra Leonean musicians including Star Zee, Emerson, Mus B, and Drizilik. He also dreams of performing on major stages such as Afronation, London’s O2 Arena, and Madison Square Garden in the United States.

Outside of music, Wyem is engaged in agribusiness. Together with his mother, he supports small-scale farmers by providing seeds and cash, which are repaid after harvest. He said the work is necessary, as music alone does not yet provide a stable income.

For Wyem, staying in Bo City is both a personal choice and a statement about where meaningful cultural influence can begin.