As the MTN Liberia Music Awards came to a close on Saturday night, the internet was ablaze with opinions and debates surrounding Mr. Church’s victory, particularly his win for “Best New Artist” of the Year. Many fans questioned how he won without a hit song, claiming he didn’t deserve the recognition. However, the reality is that the music industry doesn’t “always” run on chart-toppers or viral hits. What truly counts is the depth of an artist’s catalog, the impact they make, and their ability to connect with their audience. Mr. Church wasn’t just another artist who dropped a single; he built a catalog of over five standout songs, proving that talent, consistency, and hard work can lead to real success.

His resurgence came at the perfect time. He dropped Rest in Pieces, a diss track that dominated for months, right around the time of the MLMA nominations. He used that nomination as a springboard to build his fanbase and capture the attention of rap music lovers. Barsee, a notable figure in Liberian rap scene, inadvertently made it easier for Mr. Church by initiating a beef that led to a head-to-head rivalry. This series of rap exchanges not only put Mr. Church in the spotlight but also allowed him to steal the show from Barsee.

Many believed Barsee, with his reputation and status, would crush the beef and use it to elevate his career. Instead, he let the moment slip through his fingers. Rather than dominating the feud, Barsee’s response gave Mr. Church the opportunity to take full advantage of the situation. This helped Mr. Church grow his fanbase and positioned him as a favorite in the eyes of many.

In the end, Mr. Church didn’t just win an award—he won the spotlight. He didn’t wait for a hit song to define him; he created his own moment. The attention he garnered from the beef, combined with his undeniable musical ability, gave him the platform to showcase his true potential. Yes, Mr. Church stole the show.

Now, as the dust settles from the awards, one thing is clear: Mr. Church deserves every accolade he’s received. His success isn’t just about one song or a single moment, it’s the result of his dedication to his craft, his ability to turn rivalry into opportunity, and his undeniable presence in the Liberian hip-hop scene.

Don’t forget to checkout some of his songs on Plus Liberia. https://plusliberia.com/mrchurch

~ Peace (InkOfImpact)