Sierra Leone

We Lek We Salone

Whenever I feel like I am missing home, this song is always an uplifter!

Melvin Massaquoi

What is the song about?

This song was written by Collins Pratt, a renowned musician in Sierra Leone. The translation of the title is “Land that we love”. The song depicts our natural riches and how friendly the people of Sierra Leone are. When we fled the war, people wanted to know what type of language we are speaking and what our culture is like. We just need to work together and we will be fine.

Why is the song so loved and well known in Sierra Leone?

“We Lek We Salone” is a big motivational song for us, it is mainly sung on Independence Day, when we are down or celebrating a festival. Whenever there is an unrest or uprising this song is always sang to remind people of what we have and that we should not destroy it.

What special meaning does the song have for you?

Whenever I feel like I am missing home, this song is always an uplifter!

Tell us something about yourself. Who are you?

Mijn naam is Melvin Massaquoi. Ik ben geboren in Sierra Leone en woon nu in Enschede. Ik ben blij dat ik hier woon. Heb geleerd om nooit op te geven. Ik ben een strijder en een eerlijk mens. Na mijn studie Bedrijfsadministratie ben ik bij Hartman BV gaan werken. Ik zeg altijd “leven zonder muziek is geen leven”. Mijn hobby’s zijn muziek, zang en de natuur.

Sheet music