Courtesy of Artists' Web Pages on myspace.com

By Fenell Wilkins
VOX Staff

Bringing back good music to the way it used to be and giving the world extraordinary sound," is how 420 Coalition producer and musician Jauz describes his band’s intentions. For 14 years his country, Liberia, fought a civil war, leaving many people without education, jobs and shelter. All people could do was pray to get their country back on its feet. Whenever artists like Jauz perform at local venues and special events in the Liberian community, they’re never afraid to show their Liberian pride. “L.I.B STAND UP” is their slogan, and they continue to represent Liberia to the fullest.

Six independent artists are trying to introduce the world to a new sound of music, the kind of music that makes you think and enjoy, but still sends a special message. These artists want people to learn about their Liberian culture and to keep music clean and entertaining. The artists’ names are: Jauz, Phenom, 2C, Yung Cannon, Prince Ahmed and Holliwood, and their music can be found on MySpace. Although the artists live in different cities on the east coast, including Atlanta, Philadelphia and Providence, RI, their common vision is to uplift Liberia and let listeners know that regardless of what they’ve been through, it’s never too late for a fresh start. They want to put West Africa on the chart in entertainment and culture.

The Movement
Phenom and Jauz, brothers, producers and founders of 420 Coalition, define their work in the music business as “standing behind life, staying in touch with your spirituality, with all parts of life. Uplifting, it’s a positive movement.”

420 Coalition represents artists who have an understanding of the world’s struggles; they want to create music all people can relate to. And Jauz and Phenom want to bring West Indians, African Americans and Africans together because at the end of the day, they say, all nationalities are one.  

They’re determined to introduce a unique mix of rap, R&B and reggae to the world. Jauz and Phenom always had a passion for making music about their roots and the hardships of African life. They also collaborate with other artists who share their interests in African culture.

Even though they’re producers, they live to perform their music. “Ever since I was 7, I enjoyed creating music that turned nothing into something,” Phenom said. 420 Coalition records are played in Atlanta, D.C, Maryland, Philadelphia, Trinidad, Jamaica and Liberia. “Together and For My People” are two of their popular songs. Their album, “Prelegendary” should be looked out for in the future.
 
The Dream
2C is another musician with a strong passion for Liberian culture. His name stands for “too crazy.” But he’s not too crazy to believe that “Hip Hop would have a better sound if rappers didn't have to express how they felt with profanity and spoke on real issues.” 

2C’s first record, "Liberian Girl," became a big hit in African music back in 2006.  The song is basically about Liberian women who suffered during the civil war that ended in 2004 and had to migrate to parts of the world. “This goes out to my Liberian girl; shout out to them all over the world.” His song encourages these women to keep their heads up and reminds them that no one has forgotten about them.

2C collaborated with his brother, producer, Moskito, and cousin Catur on another song, “Bubble Butt,” which has even become a ringtone. Another song, “Liberian Dream,” sends a positive message to everyone, children especially, that they can do anything they set their minds to. 

2C sings both dancehall reggae and Hip Hop. He wants to let the world know that Hip Hop comes from all over the world. 2C wants to reach out to Liberia by showing the true pride that he has for his country. His album “Finally Here” will be coming out soon with Black Eye Peas No More Grits Entertainment. The whole company is trying to start a new trend with Afro-kicks sneakers that have the West African and Jamaican flags on them. In 2C's words, "The sky’s the limit.”
 
The Kings of Dreamland
5-6 Familia chose rap, pop and rock to show off their creativity. “We want to represent the L.I.B because that is where our family comes from, and most of all ourselves,” said Yung Cannon, a founding member of the 5-6 Familia. He and his brothers Prince Ahmed and Holliwood are determined to introduce a new genre to the music industry called Dreamland. Dreamland music sounds like pop, Baltimore club music and rock mixed together. According to the group, they want to represent their Liberian culture to the fullest to show that L.I.B. is a powerful movement and to make their music universal.

“What It Do” is one of the 5-6 Familia records played in the Philly area, where where they make their music. 5-6 Familia is preparing their next album, “Beat Em Up University,” which influenced by emotions and fun. "We want our listeners to know that we’re different from other artists," said Yung Cannon.

All of these artists want to make Liberia stand out. They want to recognize the importance of their country’s rich culture and other African cultures. It’s not just music people can dance to. Their songs tell stories that unify people from all over.

Fenell is a junior at Open Campus High, and she gives her blessings to the family of her late cousin, Charlotte Addy Blackburn.