Sami Yaffa – Sound Tracker, co-created and directed by Otso Tiainen, is an award-winning documentary series that takes viewers on a fascinating journey across the globe with Finnish musician Sami Yaffa (known for his work with Hanoi Rocks and New York Dolls). While music is the thread that connects each episode, the series primarily serves as a deep dive into the rich tapestry of human cultures.
Throughout the series, Sami travels to diverse countries like Serbia, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Ethiopia, Jamaica, Senegal, India, Turkey, and Indonesia. His mission isn’t just about finding music; it’s about understanding life through the lens of local traditions, social dynamics, and everyday interactions. He immerses himself in communities, engaging with people from all walks of life—from street performers to spiritual leaders—to uncover how their unique environments shape their expressions and way of living.
Sound Tracker masterfully illustrates how culture, in all its forms, is a universal language. Sami, with his approachable demeanor and genuine curiosity, breaks down barriers and explores the nuances of different societies. The series highlights how shared experiences, local customs, and the human spirit manifest in diverse ways, making it a compelling exploration of global cultural identity. It’s a testament to the power of human connection and the fascinating variety of life across our planet.
The series has received significant acclaim, including multiple Finnish Emmy (Venla) awards for “Best Music Television Content” and “Best Factual” program, with Tiainen also receiving a nomination for best director.
WATCH SEASON 2 (only in finnish): areena.yle.fi/1-3107277
Broadcasted in Finland, Yle Teema 2014, 2015, 2018. This award-winning documentary series has shown in almost 50 countries.
AWARDS
2014: Finnish Emmy: Best Music Television Content
2015: Finnish Emmy: Best Factual Television Content
2017: German Record Critics’ Award
NOMINATIONS
2014: Finnish Emmy: Best Director of the Year – Otso Tiainen
2016: Banff 2016 Rockie Awards: Best programme in Arts and Performance category
Credits:
Host: Sami Yaffa | Director: Otso Tiainen | Screenwriters: Antti Pesonen, Otso Tiainen & Sami Yaffa | Dop: Juge Heikkilä | Sound recordist and music mixing: Svante Colerus | Editor: Jussi Heikkinen | Sound: Karo Broman/ Silencio | Grading: Pasi Mäkelä/ James Post | Producer: Nanna Tulikoura | Executive Producers: Jari Lähteinen, Riku Rantala, Tunna Milonoff & Elise Pietarila | Production Company: Gimmeyawallet Productions
Jamaica: Sami Yaffa – Sound Tracker is a travel program where music is the destination. The second expedition starts in Jamaica, where Sami once again finds that the doors to the most interesting cultural scenes open on a street level.
WATCH JAMAICA EPISODE: areena.yle.fi/1-2678856
Senegal. Sami Yaffa is a nomad, a rock star and a musician – in other words, the perfect guide to global sounds, vibes and culture. In this episode Sound Tracker travels to Senegal to learn how this cradle of music has influenced western pop music, among others.
WATCH SENEGAL EPISODE: areena.yle.fi/1-2678858
Turkey: Sami Yaffa travels to the land between the east and the west to study the relation between religion and mystique, and music and to find the answer to the question “Does rock and roll belong to Islam?” Warning! This episode contains belly dancing and protest songs!
WATCH TURKEY EPISODE: areena.yle.fi/1-2678860
India: The rhythm knows no borders, and you don’t need a backstage pass to the world of sound. After three decades since his last visit with his band Hanoi Rocks, Sami Yaffa returns to the musically multicultural cornucopia of India.
WATCH INDIA EPISODE HERE: areena.yle.fi/1-2678859
Indonesia, Java: Sami Yaffa hops through the republic of thousands of islands, drinking in the musical cornucopia of Indonesia from the metropolis of Jakarta to the bamboo jungles of Bandung. With a side order of moonshine, post-apocalyptic scooter tuners and a heavy metal president!
WATCH INDONESIA PART 1: areena.yle.fi/1-2678861
Indonesia, Bali: Sami’s voyage to Indonesia continues! In Java, he experiences the ethnic fusion music of SambaSunda, whereas in Bali he takes part in the traditional ceremony of Gamelan. Also in this episode, the secrets of transcendental monkey dance are revealed.
WATCH INDONESIA PART 2: areena.yle.fi/1-2678862
