In a historic display of musical fest and cultural pride, acclaimed Liberian music icon Christopher Nyenga, popularly known as ‘Christoph The Change,’ captivated a record-breaking crowd at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex in Paynesville on Saturday night, during the nation’s 178th Independence Day celebrations.
Organized by “The Money Empire (TME) ~ a Liberian-owned entertainment brand founded by sound engineer and businessman Baba2 Sweetz~ the concert drew tens of thousands of Liberians, filling the stadium to capacity and marking the first time in modern musical history that a local artist headlined such a massive show without an international artist and a sponsorship from big companies.
Christoph, known for his powerful lyrics and street anthem hits, delivered a performance that electrified the audience and showcased the rich tapestry of Liberian music and culture. His energetic stage presence, backed by a full team of Liberian stars, sent the crowd into a frenzy of cheers, dances, and chants.
The night also featured stellar performances from a lineup of celebrated Liberian artists, including Lil Moore, Trille, SIO, King Dennis, Nuchie Meek, Will Flash, 10-30, Brickson, and Revolution, as well as several promising newcomers from across Monrovia and beyond.
Each artist brought a unique flair, blending Afrobeat, Hipco, R&B, and traditional rhythms into a sound that resonated deeply with the crowd.
In a surprise and symbolic gesture, House Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon made an unannounced appearance at the concert, earning a rousing welcome from the audience. Speaking from the stage, the 55th House Speaker praised the unity and cultural pride on display.
“I am deeply inspired by the love Liberians are showing for their own. It’s time we all rally behind our artists and cultural figures,” Hon. Koon stated. “We must support Liberian music, arts, and everything that reflects our identity as a people.”
He went on to promise a greater support for the entertainment industry, announcing plans to sponsor the next musical jamboree in the near future to further uplift local talent.
“Loving Liberia means loving everything about it~its people, its music, and its traditions,” Speaker Koon said.
The event was more than just a concert~ it was a bold statement of national solidarity, identity, unity, and cultural self-reliance and resilience. The seal of the Liberian flag, the roar of the crowd, and the unmistakable rhythms of homegrown music made one message loud and clear: Liberia is ready to take pride in its own and Liberian music is taking over.
As Independence Day celebrations continue, Christoph’s performance will be remembered as a historic musical and cultural milestone ~ one that redefined what it means to be a Liberian artist and reminded the nation of the power of local talent and the essence of embracing its own.
