Masta Lion

Masta Lion, born in Brikama, West Coast Region, Gambia, now resides in Finland.

Music runs in his blood, a gift he inherited from his late mother, who remains his inspiration. As a child, Masta Lion would accompany her to various religious gatherings, where he began singing. Although circumstances prevented him from pursuing music seriously at that time, he eventually found his path. In the early 1990s, he began working as a DJ at local events, club gigs, private parties, and festivals. Despite the challenges of balancing deejaying with his studies, his passion kept him going. Masta Lion studied multicultural event management and earned a Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, which gave him the skills to organize events that brought together people from diverse backgrounds.

In 2021, Masta Lion lost his mother in Brikama, Gambia. This loss led him to a period of deep meditation, reflection, and self-exploration, inspiring his debut album Tribute to Mama, dedicated to her memory. Combining his sorrow with hard work, he created a powerful Afro-Reggae album featuring various Gambian and Jamaican artists. Tracks such as "I Rise" with Sizzla Kalonji, "Africa Arise" featuring Anthony B, "Spread Love" with Ras Askia, "Alfalu" with Singateh, "True Friends" featuring Akipunture, and the Afro-Reggae song "Al-kanasong" with Black Thunder highlight his talent for fusing musical styles and emotional storytelling.

Masta Lion’s debut album is a major artistic contribution, soulful and inspirational, demonstrating his dedication to Afro-Reggae.

Masta Lion’s transition from DJ to recording and performing artist has allowed him to expand his professional scope from business to the arts. His music often explores Africa’s underdevelopment and disunity, using his lyrics to inspire, educate, and challenge listeners.

His debut album, Tribute to Mama, released in 2021, was a turning point in his career. The album's reggae rhythms and heartfelt lyrics connected with audiences worldwide, solidifying his standing in the international reggae community. Following its success, Masta Lion released his second album, Fondinkelu, in 2022, which showcased his growth as an artist and his dedication to delivering authentic reggae music.

His unique blend of reggae and storytelling has made Masta Lion a rising star on the global music scene. With his rich cultural background and passion for music, he continues to inspire and uplift audiences through his messages of love, unity, and resilience.

Masta Lion's extensive experience as a DJ and promoter has allowed him to organize numerous events, from club parties to live shows. He has collaborated with popular touring bands and solo artists, working both as a DJ and booking agent throughout Europe. He remains a prominent figure in Helsinki’s nightlife, notably organizing the historic Morgan Heritage Family performance at the "Vanha" Concert Hall. Since 2010, he has hosted events featuring Jamaican reggae sensations like Chronixx, Kabaka Pyramid, Tarrus Riley, and Luciano.

In 2010, Masta Lion graduated with a Bachelor's degree in event management and hospitality. This equipped him to establish Masta Lion Promotion, an initiative dedicated to promoting cultural exchange and artistic diversity in Finland, Gambia, and across Europe....