-Liberian Cultural Icon Opens Up About Aging Gracefully, Mentoring Young Artists, Empowering Girls, Preserving Human Connections and Why Service to Others Defines a Meaningful Life
MONROVIA – To generations of Liberians, Miatta Fahnbulleh is more than a celebrated musician. She is a cultural icon, an educator, broadcaster, women’s rights advocate and one of the country’s most recognizable voices for social change.
Now at 78, Fahnbulleh says she is far from finished.
In a heartfelt and deeply personal conversation with acclaimed Ghanaian broadcaster Kafui Dey, the legendary singer reflected on a life shaped by music, activism and public service, insisting that creativity has no retirement age and that life’s greatest purpose is to leave behind something that uplifts others.
The wide-ranging interview moved beyond politics to reveal the philosophy that has guided one of Liberia’s most influential cultural figures for more than five decades—one rooted in service, continuous learning and hope for future generations.
‘Artists Never Retire’
For Fahnbulleh, age has never been a reason to stop creating.
She disclosed that she is working on a new musical project, explaining that artists do not retire in the conventional sense because creativity continues to evolve throughout life.
Instead of stepping away from music, she believes seasoned artists have an even greater responsibility to share their knowledge and experiences with younger generations while continuing to produce meaningful work.
Having inspired audiences across Africa with classics such as Everybody Likes Saturday Night, Fahnbulleh said music remains one of the most powerful ways to preserve culture, tell African stories and inspire social change.
She also expressed excitement about collaborating with younger Liberian musicians, saying every generation brings fresh ideas while older artists contribute wisdom and experience.
According to her, the future of Liberian music depends not only on emerging talent but also on a willingness by veteran performers to mentor those coming behind them.
A Life Guided by Purpose
Looking back on her remarkable journey, Fahnbulleh said she has never measured success solely by fame or public recognition.
Instead, she believes every individual has a responsibility to use his or her talents in service of society.
Whether through music, broadcasting, education or advocacy, she said her greatest fulfillment has come from contributing to the lives of others rather than pursuing personal acclaim.
That commitment to service, she explained, remains the driving force behind everything she continues to do today.
Championing Girls’ Education
Among the causes closest to Fahnbulleh’s heart is the empowerment of young girls.
During the interview, she reflected on efforts to rebuild a girls’ education and empowerment center after it was destroyed by fire, describing the initiative as an investment in Liberia’s future rather than simply a charitable undertaking.
She argued that educating girls produces benefits that extend far beyond individual families.
According to Fahnbulleh, societies become stronger when girls are given opportunities to learn, develop leadership skills and achieve their full potential.
For her, empowering young women remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen Liberia’s long-term development.
Celebrating a Family Legacy of Service
Fahnbulleh also spoke proudly about her family’s tradition of public service, highlighting the appointment of her niece to a senior position in the United Kingdom government.
She described the achievement as a source of immense pride, not only for her family but also for Liberia, saying it demonstrates that Liberians can excel on the international stage through education, dedication and hard work.
She encouraged young Liberians to pursue excellence wherever opportunities may arise, emphasizing that national identity should never be viewed as a limitation.
Lessons That Began in Childhood
The celebrated artist credited much of her outlook on life to lessons learned from her grandfather during childhood.
She recalled being encouraged to recognize and nurture her talents from an early age, advice that would later shape both her artistic career and her commitment to public service.
Those early teachings, she said, reinforced the importance of discipline, humility and perseverance—qualities she believes remain essential for young people seeking success today.
Technology Must Never Replace Human Relationships
Although she acknowledged the tremendous benefits modern technology has brought to society, Fahnbulleh expressed concern about its growing influence on human relationships.
She warned that excessive dependence on digital communication risks weakening the personal interactions that hold families and communities together.
According to her, meaningful conversations, shared experiences and genuine human connection remain irreplaceable, regardless of technological advancement.
Technology, she argued, should be used to strengthen relationships rather than replace them.
Aging With Grace and Good Health
Asked how she has maintained her energy and enthusiasm well into her late seventies, Fahnbulleh attributed it to a disciplined lifestyle, healthy eating and maintaining a positive outlook on life.
She praised traditional African foods, moderation and staying active, saying aging should not be viewed as a period of decline but as another opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.
Older people, she said, possess invaluable experience and wisdom that should continue to benefit younger generations.
Still Writing Her Story
Although Miatta Fahnbulleh’s contributions to Liberian music and society have already secured her place among the nation’s most respected cultural figures, she believes her work is not yet complete.
Whether through recording new music, mentoring young artists, advocating for girls’ education or encouraging healthier lifestyles, she says there is still much she hopes to accomplish.
Her reflections offer more than the memories of an accomplished career.
They provide a blueprint for purposeful living—one built on creativity, resilience, compassion and an unwavering commitment to making life better for others.
For Fahnbulleh, legacy is not measured simply by songs recorded or awards received.
It is measured by lives touched, opportunities created and the hope passed on to the next generation.
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