Enab Baladi | "Solo" The Syrian Street Musician

In this Arabic-language article from Enab Baladi, a prominent news organization, the journey of Omar Alkilani, a Syrian guitarist who arrived in Turkey as a refugee with just a guitar and twenty dollars, unfolds against the backdrop of Istanbul's bustling Istiklal Street. Documented in the film 'Solo,' Omar's transformation from street musician to establishing a professional studio exemplifies resilience and the empowering role of music in adversity. The article explores how Omar's story resonates with many other artists fleeing conflict, highlighting the transformative power of artistic expression amidst displacement. The documentary 'Solo' was nominated for and won the second prize in the Al Jazeera Documentary Awards in 2020.