Timothy Mesulame Solomon, better known as Tim, is making a breakthrough in
the local music scene as the bassist and vocalist for Fiji’s famous boy band, InsideOut. Known for his distinctive “Jimi Hendrix” or left-handed playing style, which involves strumming the bass guitar upside down, Tim’s journey in music is deeply rooted in his childhood friendships and cultural identity.
The Origins of InsideOut
InsideOut was born from a lifelong friendship between Tim and Apakuki Nalawa, famously known as KUKI. The duo first connected in their neighbourhood, just a few houses apart, where they spent their afternoons playing touch rugby and jamming with guitars on their driveways.
This shared passion for music eventually led them to collaborate on their debut song, “Sweet Talkin’,” after reconnecting during Tim’s tertiary studies in Nadi. Their bond solidified further when Kuki invited Tim to join him in forming what would become InsideOut.
InsideOut’s Songwriting Process
Tim describes the band’s songwriting process as a collective effort. When he
feels inspired to write solo, he immerses himself in his own creative space. However, when working with the band, they typically play a track in the background to choose a theme and structure the song collaboratively. Each member contributes ideas, and they record their sessions to refine their work later.
Their Cultural Messages Through Music
A significant aspect of InsideOut’s music is its focus on cultural identity and
empowerment. Tim emphasizes that their most important message is about understanding one’s roots and celebrating cultural heritage. He believes that drawing from their I-Taukei culture keeps them grounded and humble while inspiring the youth of today.
Musical Evolution
Over the years, InsideOut has evolved musically, experimenting with various styles but ultimately returning to their sound of poly-reggae and island reggae. Their sound incorporates English and I-Taukei lyrics, allowing them to connect and appeal to diverse audiences.
Community Engagement
InsideOut has made it a priority to give back to the community through their music. After over a decade of performing, they are often invited to major festivals where they not only entertain but also display traditional I-Taukei dances. This commitment will be highlighted at the upcoming Holoholo concert in Las Vegas, where fans can expect a vibrant fusion of music and culture.
Pre-Performance Routine
Before each performance, Tim engages in a personal routine that include prayer
and reflection. He acknowledges how nervousness used to affect him but has since transformed into excitement as he embraces the joy of performing live. He humorously notes that during performances, his primary concern is “not to mess up the chords” while managing the complexities of singing and playing bass
simultaneously.
Milestones and Future Aspirations
For Tim, every achievement with InsideOut is a milestone worth celebrating. However, he considers being invited to perform at Holoholo 2025 particularly significant as it marks a new chapter for the band.
Looking ahead, InsideOut plans a world tour in early 2025 that promises an
exciting blend of visual elements alongside their live performances.
Balancing Family Life and Music
Tim credits his success to the unwavering support from his family. His wife
plays a crucial role in allowing him to pursue his passion for music while
maintaining family responsibilities. As a full-time artist under Resonance Entertainment, he reflects on how this support has been vital since day one.
Advice for Aspiring Musicians
Tim encourages aspiring musicians to remain consistent and dedicated to their craft. Quoting Marianne Williamson, he reminds them that reaching one peak is merely the beginning of another journey: “The top of one mountain is always
the bottom of another.”
His long-term goal for InsideOut includes striving for recognition at prestigious events like the Grammys while continuously improving himself within the band. With an upcoming world tour and new music on the horizon, InsideOut continues to shape Fiji’s musical scene, proving that local artists can thrive both
at home and abroad.
