Al Jazeera airs “Go Telem on the Mountain: Making Music in Sierra Leone”

Solomon Fatoma, also known as Solo’s Beat’s musical journey and groundbreaking contributions are the focus of the short documentary “Go Telem on the Mountain: Making Music in Sierra Leone.” This captivating film aired on Al Jazeera, directed by the talented storyteller, filmmaker, and journalist Adenike Hamilton, takes viewers on a unique auditory adventure, giving us a snippet into the extraordinary world of Solo’s Beat.

The Man Behind the Beats

Solo’s Beat is not your average composer and singer-songwriter. With a deep passion for music and a natural ability to blend various musical styles, he creates a distinctive sound that is unmistakably his own. What sets him apart is his use of unusual instruments and his inventive approach to recording sound effects from a range of unconventional sources around him. From the rustling of leaves to the clinking of everyday objects, Solo’s Beat finds music in the most unexpected places, crafting an auditory experience that is both unique and enchanting.

“Life is actually musical, the way we talk, the way we walk everything is just in timing. So I started listening instead of hearing and started picking up things and make the music I want to make,” Solo’s Beat on “Go Telem on the Mountain” documentary.

Telem: A Collective Vision

Telem means safe space and in the heart of Solo’s Beat’s mission is Telem, the collective for musicians he co-founded. This collaborative platform is dedicated to sharing the rich and diverse sounds of African music with the world. Through Telem, Solo’s Beat and his fellow musicians aim to break down barriers and challenge preconceived notions about African music. They believe that Africa has a wealth of unique sounds to offer, and through their collective efforts, they are bringing these sounds to a global audience.

The Storyteller Behind the Lens

Adenike Hamilton aka The 3rd Culture Kid, a Freetown native, brings her narrative change expertise to this documentary. With a background in journalism and storytelling, she is dedicated to reshaping the way stories from Sierra Leone and Africa are told. As an impact producer and a 2023 DW Constructive Journalism Fellow, Adenike conducts storytelling workshops globally, sharing her insights and empowering others to tell their stories. Her work on “Go Telem on the Mountain” is a testament to her commitment to highlighting the creativity and resilience of Sierra Leonean artists.

A Unique Musical Journey

“Go Telem on the Mountain: Making Music in Sierra Leone” is more than just a documentary; it is a celebration of innovation, culture, and the power of music. Through the lens of Adenike Hamilton, viewers are invited to experience the world of Solo’s Beat, witnessing his creative process and the passion that drives him. The film captures the essence of Sierra Leonean music, showcasing how traditional and modern elements can blend to create something truly extraordinary.

In a world where the music industry is often dominated by mainstream sounds, Solo’s Beat stands out as a beacon of originality and cultural pride. His work with Telem and his innovative approach to music production remind us of the boundless possibilities that exist within the realm of creativity. “Go Telem on the Mountain” is not just a documentary; it is a tribute to the spirit of Sierra Leonean music and the artists who dare to push boundaries and redefine what is possible.

Other creatives to work on this project are Caleb McKay (Cinematographer), Foday Turay (Editor), and Sean Carew (Sound Assistant).