A statement from the organisers said despite the bad weather the program managed to pull through.

As has been the tradition, the second round kicked in with the introduction of both the star schools and the junior category.

This year the Solo Icon competition took to another level within the star school category compared to previous years.

The panel of judges had to eliminate a number of contestants within the Icon categories from thirty nine to only eighteen to enter the third round.

Kolale School, dressed in black with the captaincy of Mr Marlon Sia demonstrated a quality star performance, by showcasing a unique harmonious sound that amazed the panel of the judges and the crowd.

St Nicholas School was led by Chelsea Saliga and Derick Houkarawa. Undeniably, the duo did put a remarkable performance that made the school proud and on their feet in for support them, which saw them through to the next elimination round.

Mbua Valley School was represented by Graylyn Hou and Nester Alaheheni. Mbua Valley school was loved and admired for their interpretation of the story they sang.

Harvest Academy School was represented by the Vave sisters. Young as they were, compared to other schools they truly impressed their fans.

In the Junior category those who made it into the third round included: Junita Vave, Kareen Wairai, Latisha Vave, Kirsteen Hebala, Lisi Vave, Nester Alahikeni, Benadeth Garo and Cassandra Saliga.

 In the Star School category the schools that went through to the next round were: St Nicholas, USP Centre, Mbua Valley, St John, Marara, Koloale and Harvest Academy.

 In the Icon Category the following contestants made it into the next round: Zarina Luiramo, Isaac Tagini, Rose Ila, Graylyn Hou, Philis Faarodo, Simpy Macsasai, Chelsea Saliga, Braddley Knox, Junior Houkarawa, Danny Agei, Rosie Paia, Melita Salu, Kris Evan, Jahmela Renlyn, Simon Kosa, Daisy Kong, Elna Nuia and Loretta Ginn.

The 3rd round is set for Sunday 30th July 2017.

Warrior Records Liason officer and Creative media’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Duane Baiabe said the initiative aims to showcase talents and make their voices heard in the local music scene.

The event is scheduled for the 19th Saturday at the Red Mansion and will feature Lipi, Andrei and Jethro, with performances by Radikol, Kera, Bibao and DJ Tua.

“Solo Jamz is another event to salute and promote young talents in Honiara and around the Solomon’s to showcase and bring to the ears of our local people what the younger generation are creating, producing and putting out in terms of music genres to the public.

Baiabe said the initiative was created to invite artists who have the passion in music and have them exposed.

“We came up with the idea not because we want to compete in anyway or with anyone else, we came up with the idea of creating an event, inviting artists who have passion for music and give them the opportunity on stage to showcase their skills and talent.

With the support from friends and families, the event aims to expand the idea to a bigger platform internationally.

“The idea of expansion to a bigger platform also depends on big companies and organizations and whether they support it or not. We like to think that in order for these bigger sponsors to help out, we have to prove to them first that we can bring good results from our shows in terms of marketing and that entire corporate obligation.

“But we do this for the love and passion for music and how it positively brings together young and old.

The CEO also said that Solomon Islands have a rich talent of musicians and ambassadors throughout the region.

“Solomon Islands are a gold mine of great talents. We have so many musical ambassadors moving our music throughout the Pacific region and it’s for their hard work that we salute them by keeping the music fire burning.

He added that Music in the Solomon’s is a culture, a norm and a God given gift.

“You walk through the streets of the Solomon’s and music is everywhere, but finding the right medium to expose these talents to the wider audience has always been the Solomon challenge.

He stated that the music barrier has taken a new twist with the use of social media and personal studios, the organizers step in to boost local talents to the Pacific and wider world.
 

By Peter Zoleveke Jr
Freelancer

Native Stoneage made their mark in the international music scene in the early 90s with a mixture of roots reggae and island blend.

Their lyrics, cantered around politics, poverty and religion, have touched many both near and far.

Naio, Vanuatu’s long standing reggae band shares similar inspiration through music as they put the tiny Pacific island nation on international music scene.

The band first released its debut album titled ‘Paradise’ in the early 90s followed by ‘New Day’, ‘My Home’ and ‘Unity.’

Their hit songs are ‘Dooms Day’, ‘All My Life’ and the recent award winning ‘Mother Earth’ a song composed about the impacts of climate change.

Naio are often thought to have a similar musical style to their contemporaries Native Stoneage.  However their use of few traditional musical sounds from their renowned string band gives an authentic sound to their music.

Naio have toured Solomon Islands in the past and they are looking forward to return to the country next month.

Local promoter of the Naio-Native Stoneage joint concert Fred Taisara told Sunday Star that the two bands established a ‘sister relationship’ way back in 2008 and the upcoming concert is part of that relationship.

“The two great reggae bands have established sister relationship and would like to boost that relationship in the upcoming concert on September 30 to October 1 at the Art Gallery.

“That relationship was initiated way back in 2008 when both bands performed at Art Gallery and they are thinking of strengthening this relationship with the help of Peter Namak the Managing Director for Naio who is married to a relative of the Native Stoneage band members,” he said. The Stoneage band comprises of family members are from the Fataleka region in Malaita Province.

In the modern digital age, live bands are said to be a thing of the past but the two giant reggae bands are set to bring fans on their feet with live rhythms at their upcoming concert in Honiara.

By SIMON ABANA

A force to  reckon with in reggae, pop, hip hop and a blend of R&B fusion, Kirwan Hatigeva ( Jah Boy’s birth name), a  Solomon Islander of  mixed Polynesian and Melanesian parentage,  has been making waves at both the regional and international music scenes with his unique styles.

The local reggae sensation staged two separate shows as part of his Pacific tour in the tiny Pacific island nation. He was accompanied by his music producer, a Solomon Islander of Kiribati descent.

Speaking to the press in Tarawa, the music sensation said he was pleased to meethis fans in Kiribati.

“I love going on tours because I’m always excited about meeting my fans and new people. My fans always want to meet me. Besides that I love experiencing different environment- lifestyles and cultures.

“So coming here, Iampretty excited because back home in the Solomons, we have a lot of Gilbertese and we call them Gilbert people. They’re originally from here (Kirabati). So the exciting thing about this place is that it has a Solomon feeling.

“Coming here reminds me of the Western Province in Solomon Islands, one of the provinceswhere all the Gilbertese live.  So yeah, for me I’m so happy to be here. I just got here and still to experience what life is like here and see more of the place,” Jah boy stated.

Jah Boy who signed under the Rebelle Inc label has millions of fans on social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube.

His reggae cover of Justine Bieber’s ‘Love Yourself’ is by far his most watched music video on YouTube with a total of 7 million and five hundred thousand people streaming it live since last year.

The young lad made his mark in the local music scene with his debut single entitled ‘Murderer’ in 2008.

Collaboration with New Zealand’s hip hop star Scribe and Australian top underground rap artist Fortify were some of the bright spots of his magical rise to the top.

The collaboration made music history by shooting a video clip I-Premier with Scribe and Fortafy while on one of his two separate tours to Australia.

Another track making waves in the international scene is ‘Good Vibes’ featuring Jamaican YouTube sensation Conkarah and Samoan Sammielz.

Good Vibes reaches more than 1 million and all his hit songs are available on iTunes for purchase.

He signed with independent record label/publisher, Rebelle Inc in 2011 and he won two coveted awards in the local music scene as a 19 year old.

Another Solomon Islands solo artist Dezine was Jay Boy’s band mate with the group Urban Rhymes who hit the radio stations with hit track Oh Gela in 2008.

Jah Boy’s major breakthrough in the Reggae festival world was an appearance at the Cairns Reggae town Music Festival.

The festival has been graced in the past by reggae legends such as Third World, Black Seeds, Tiki Taane and King Kapisi.

Just last year the talented singer toured the Fiji Islands as part of the collaborative efforts of a youth organisation and Fiji’s biggest entertainment group, hope Fiji.

Meanwhile, Jah Boy has teamed up with Marshall Islands Zeah and young local artist Chris Young and evergreen Paeva in a new music video for his latest track ‘Loving Life’.

The music video was filmed by Torn Parachute in the US territory and produced by Baka Solomon of SIX9TOO Productions.

By SIMON ABANA

The Pacific Islands reggae sensations Naio from Vanuatu and Solomon Islands very own Native Stoneage will perform at Art Gallery showground on Saturday September 30 and Sunday October 1.

Organiser of the concert Allan Siau told the Solomon Star that this two-day concert marks a milestone partnership between the two famous reggae bands in the Pacific.

“This will be a show for reggae fans in the country.

“Naio and Native Stoneage are two famous reggae bands in the Pacific region and their joint-concert will be a thriller for their fans in the country,” he said.

Mr Siau said the concert will also feature some of the famous reggae bands in the country- Jaro Local, Dezine, Jah Roots, DMP, Cool Roots and Chrystal Roots.

“This concert will be an inclusive one as it will also feature the roots reggae and island reggae bands.

“We want to revive the true Melanesian spirit of friendship under the banner of reggae music,” Mr Siau said.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism Andrew Nihopara will officially open the concert.

Mr Siau said the show on Saturday 30 September will start at 10:30 am whilst the show on Sunday 1 October will begin 1:30pm.

He said tickets are selling at $30 for adults and $20 for children.

By TEDDY KAFO

Speaking to Paoa FM, Kera said the studio was implemented to help boost the local talented artists down in the western province, and other artist around the Country.

''Currently I'm based in Australia, but I've been travelling between Solomon Islands and Australia, and I have just opened up a music studio in Gizo with prominent local artist Radical T.K -which is called Warrior Records,'' he said.

Kera said that while spending time in Gizo, this year he has met and noticed many hidden potentials artist living down in Gizo.

'' When I toured Western Province in the beginning of the year I noticed many potential and talented artists in Gizo, and I thought of giving them a chance to provide them the access to do recordings,'' he added.

He said that while spending his short holiday in Gizo, he also managed to do a few projects or collaboration with a few artists and the popular group Dezine is one of them.

''I'm working on an E.P, which is going to be called 'Conflict', and it is a pure Hip-pop E.P where I am hoping to release sometime next year. I'm also working on an E.P with Radical T.K that is also coming up,'' he said.

Asked if he's going to feature any of the local artist, Kera said ''Yes that's the plan, and for that I have already talked with artist such as, Radical T.K, Dezine and B-bao and Phillip Palmer.”

Kera recently dropped his latest single on Paoa FM called "Home" featuring the local group Dezine.

The new song featured other notable artists in PNG like Young Dee, Drex Blunteh and J Liko who is also part Solomon Islands.

 The brothers Funky & Rushee are currently based in Port Moresby and have been living in the city for almost 16 years and have been dropping tunes recorded in PNG throughout the year.

The recently released song from the Florida islands is the latest of the trending lyrical style released by artists in and around the country singing about ladies and promoting their roots, a style which began in PNG through Jaro (Meri Kalibobo & Half Malaita) and eventually influenced local songwriters to do likewise.

Funky is currently working on his new album, and local fans are expecting to hear more new tunes from the brothers collaborating with PNG's big names in the music industry.

 The song is recorded and produced in Papua New Guinea by the young PNG producer, Dr Whiz. Tune into Paoa FM to listen to 'Nice Bola Lo Kula'.

 The artist behind this song is the 24-year-old Phillip Lauka of North Choiseul and North Malaita descent.

 Known as 'Black M', music for Phillip is just a hobby.

 "I listen to music every day, and I learn a lot from the different types of music," he said.

 "I live and breathe music, and I can't go a day without it. I expressed a lot of my feelings about life and love through music,” Philip added.

Black M is a singer and producer who's been working tirelessly to assist other musicians in their music.

 "I started recording at Tinge with Desmond, of Dee Deatz Production studios, from then on, I just keeping getting new ideas to write and produce songs day after day.”

 With the release of 'Half Tikopia', Black M's popularity has reached new heights with fans storming his Facebook page.

 "Tio Half Tikopia is a song I wrote for a friend, Fred, who recently broke up with a girl who's part Tikopia.

“The song is in the Roviana dialect and pidgin English.

 "I'd like to thank Rojay of Jabz Production Studios who is also featured in the single, who really helped me put the song together.”

Black M's favourite local talent to date is Chris Young, and his favourite International star is Austin Mahone.

 Despite recording a few songs already, his path wasn't that smooth.

 "People like to talk, and I 've received so much negativity from people especially people from home who teased me and told me I couldn't do it. I just laughed and continued on to do what I love," he said.

 "Also funding is a big challenge in my music career, but I managed to scrape through to record my songs.”

 Black M hopes to become a professional music producer in a few years’ time and to continue and improve his skills in music.

“I'd like to thank Desmond of Dee Deatz, Rojay of Jabz Production and Rodney Kwanz, people who always got my back.”

Mr Chottu said under a new arrangement Honiara dancers will give the youths of greater Kiribati a chance to get active and learn plenty of banging skills.

“We are helping Kiribati youths to host their biggest youth event in December from 1st – 09th.

 “They request our hip-hop dancers to travel over for the lessons and judging,” he said.

Mr Chottu who just returned from Kiribati overseeing the arrangement said the program was initiated by Kiribati youths (KYIA).

“The trip will be sponsored by Tateraka Enterprises, Kiribati Ministry of Women & Youths, and other businesses houses in Tarawa.

 “This is just the beginning whilst future plans are to organize an exchange program between Solomon Islands and Kiribati youths,” he said adding that a program like this will help our marginalized youth contribution to the national economy.

The Kiribati youth event includes:

Hip-hop (Freestyle), Singing, Drama and Pacific Dance (Tamure).

Battlegrounds Solomon Islands 2017 first runner up dancing crew- Villains has been selected to travel to Kiribati and partake in the youth program.

As reported earlier, this year’s winning dance crews; Puppetz, Villains and Midwest Rebirth did not able to attend the World Supremacy Battlegrounds dancing competition hosted in Sydney, Australia two months ago due to immigration hiccups.

But they have been invited to partake in a dance competition set to be hosted in Manilla, Philippines sometimes next year.

By TEDDY KAFO

Auckland based band leader, Willie Tekatoha explained that the tour was the longest and most challenging the band had ever engaged in and it’s a wonder the group came out of it safe.

“Eight band members cramped in one vehicle, on the road for weeks on end, travelling miles on the highways for gigs was hard but certainly memorable,” the bandleader explained.

KMK Kaumaakonga’s unique music combines Avaiki (Rennell and Bellona) traditional chants with a Melanesian touch.

Three of the band members, Vincent Marita (Junior)-guitar, Mike Maefaididia-bass and Alvin Indu-drums are from Ulawa, Makira and Malaita respectively while the rest of them are from Rennell Bellona province.

“That makes our combination very special,” said Tekatoha. “Raymond Mainge and Jenny Tekatoha’s vocal work was just amazing, combine that with Kaipua Paa’ungahenua’s traditional percussion style, we were musically in safe hands.” Tekatoha added.

The tour was a combined effort of many hard working people and agencies. Solomon Islands Multicultural Arts centre (SIMAC) and Avaiki Music Association arranged the tour with Minjeribah Artist Alliance Project (MAAP), an organisation on Stradbroke Island, Brisbane.

With logistic support from Solomon Islands Music Federation and Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB), band members worked hard to fund themselves and assistance from friends for most of the tour.

Managed by Martin Tomoana, Kaumaakonga kicked off their tour mid November with a week of cultural exchange activities between Kaumaakonga and Yuluburriba dancers, collaborating songs and dances.

They put together combined performances to open and close Island Vibe Music festival on Stradbroke Island and also had their own stage and workshop slots during the festival where they showcased their music, dances, rhythms, stories and traditional costumes.

As part of the excitement in the tour, one of the best Melbourne based producer David Bridie offered record time for Kaumaakonga during the tour and they recorded 4 tracks under Wantok Muzik label.

The project is ongoing and according the KMK leader, it is something they will work to have it completed over the next 12 months.

Kaumaakonga then moved on from studio to Byron Bay where they camped and collaborated with Ethno Australia, opening the Mullum Festival with their traditional song “Tonga Puapua”.

They continued to perform over the four days and were able to attract a huge following and picking up extra gigs.

At the Mullum festival, KMK band members had the opportunity to be part of the crowd supporting another Solomon Island traditional musician Charles Maimarosia who was performing there as well.

KMK also teamed up with Guadalcanal weavers who showcased their products during the two festivals.

“It was good to have a presence of Solomon Islands artists and we were working together,” the statement adds.

The tour was made possible through combined efforts of agencies and those close to the band, which includes Solomon’s Multicultural Arts centre (SIMAC) and Avaiki Music Association who arranged the tour with the Minjeribah Artist Alliance Project (MAAP), of Stradbroke Island, Brisbane.

With logistic support from Solomon Islands Music Federation and Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB), band members worked hard to fund themselves and assistance from friends for most of the tour.

The band arrived back on Wednesday.
 

- KMK Media

 

By RONALD TOITO’ONA

SOLOMON Islands renowned hit making songster ‘Jaro Local’ is set to head to the New Zealand on a scheduled tour this month.

The man behind the famous ‘Half Malaita’ song will be performing for his NZ fans for the first time, at Club Royalz in Manukau, on March 22.

Jaro ‘Jeremy Saeni’, is the son of Pacific icon Sharzy, and has soared to new heights over the past few years with his island reggae style, blending Melanesian creoles and slangs.

Some of his hit singles that are taking the Pacific region by storm are ‘Dakini Tangarareh, ‘Ngoiza', and the latest ‘Leabana’.

A report reaching the Weekend Magazine stated that the recent Rugby League world cup was the event that Jaro's song 'DAKINI TANGARAREH' was hitting out almost on every street around Auckland and Hamilton in New Zealand.

Tongans, Samoans and other Pacific islanders loved the song and it was evidential that the need for the songster to perform in New Zealand was going to happen.

Summary of this upcoming tour was rumoured to be an achievement for the singer, as well as for the Solomon Islands music industry.

Jaro Local has scooped three awards at the 13th Yumi FM PNG music awards in Port Moresby last year.

He was awarded South Pacific Group of the Year Award, - snatching it from his father Sharzy and cousin brother Sean Rii, who were also nominated for the category.

His second award is ‘Rookie of the Year/ Newest Group of the Year’ Award.

And the third award ‘Song of the Year’ Meri Kalibobo.

In recent years, the young singer was invited for gigs in nightclubs in countries like New Caledonia, Vanuatu and PNG.

Jeremy is working closely with DJ Ozlam and Chuki Juice whom are some of the best music producers whilst also doing collaboration and solo.

He is also one of the renowned DJ’s working for ZFM station in Honiara.

The artist name ‘Jaro Local’ is adopted during Jeremy’s childhood days at White River when friends used to called his name in short ‘Jaro’ and later he decided to spice it up with ‘Local’ to define his status as a local artist.

Jaro was also a member to the recognized boy-band DEZINE, where he and his fellow Saeni brothers Richard (Sean Rii) and Albert (Mi Santana) were the originators.

To qualify for the competition, the musician or artist must be a Solomon Islander by origin with a background in music and song writing or musical arrangement.

The winning entry will remain the property of MACFNOC and the Solomon Islands Government while all other entries will be returned to their respective owners and not to be reproduced in anyway.

To enter the competition, a participant has to accept the above cash price award and its related Intellectual Property Rights condition before entering the competition.

The lyrics of the theme song must be reflective of the theme of the festival “Past Recollections; Future Connections”, and relates to the people and culture of Melanesia.

The lyrics may be in English, however, can be able to use some inserts of pijin, Tok Pisin and Bislama as well as French (provided that the meaning is absolutely clear).

The competition will close on April 6th, 2018. A Cash Prize of SBD$10,000 will be awarded to the winning entry which covers the outright payment of the Intellectual Property Rights of the song.

Details of entry requirements and musical arrangements can be obtained from the Director of the Culture Division of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Honiara.

After some years of promoting other local and international artists, the native icon told the Solomon Star that he is set to release his 7th album this year.

Speaking exclusively to the Solomon Star, Samson Saeni ‘Sharzy’ said the new album will be something totally different, from what he was known for.

“The music style is under a world music genre, but targets the international market.

“I’ve tried to do something that we the pacific musicians are capable of doing.

“It’s not Aelan music after all, but we pushed the trend up a bit,” he said.

He added, he will be releasing the Album in Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia, and three locations in Australia.

“It will be released in Port Vila, around 5th May.

“It will be launched also in Australia in May, on three locations, Cairns, Brisbane, and Sydney.”

According to the Simbo, Malaita grandee, he is already eyeing the digital market.

He said, his fans can only access songs from the album via itunes, as it will be released under Mangrove Production on digital only, and not on CDs.

“This happens because of the strategic marketing we faced in the music industry,” Sharzy explicated.

Sharzy’s ‘One Summer’ album is produced by Desmond Piniau, a.k.a ‘Dee Beats’, who is also, part Tolai in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Malaita. The producer is based in Honiara, but went over to PNG for the project.

The recording was done at Big Time Production in POM City, owned by Solomon Islands very own Floyd Manata, also known as ‘Funky’.

While in Solomon Islands to launch his album, Sharzy said he will only stage two shows in Gizo and Noro, Western Province since he will spend most of his time at home (Gizo).

After leaving the country, they will be teaming up with Pati Potts Doi of PNG, for their Vanuatu tour.

By RONALD TOITO’ONA

 

 

Asked what he has been doing over the passing years, Sharzy said he was just doing music, and helping to promote other artists in tours across the Pacific.

He said, music is always part of his life and he always keeps doing what he does best.

Sharzy was born on the island of Simbo in the Western Province. His mother is from Simbo and his father from Malaita. His musical career began in 1995 when he joined the 2-4-1 band.

He produced his first solo album "Aloha" in 2001, which became an instant hit. Since then he has released "Aelan feel'n" (2003), "Aelan Wei" (Pijin for "island way") (2008), "Hem Stret" (2008), "Yumi Flo" (2009) and "Iu Mi Flow" (2010).

He sings in many languages including Simbo, Roviana, and Solomon Islands Pijin. He also has tracks in Tok Pisin and English.

He has been described by The Guardian as one of the Solomon Islands' "living national icons".

Sharzy currently resides up Eastern Highlands, Goroka Province in PNG.

Since women all over the world are celebrating Mother's Day, the issue of this melodious and heartfelt song was well timed.

With her first hit cover of Adele’s - Hello with Conkarah has over 40+BillionViews on YouTube, she has decided to venture into her own music.

Asked on how she happens to come up with the idea, she smiled and said that it was all a mother's due, and she has been thinking about doing it for quite some time now.

"All mothers out there deserve appreciation for all the hard work and dedication they put into parenting and this song is dedicated with love to those selfless souls out there.

Miss Delmah also emphasized that showing gratitude for our mothers is the right thing to do.

"Despite all the different situations that women of the world find themselves in, being a mother/parent is hard. All the struggles and sacrifices a woman has to put up with just so their child can be fed, groomed and even get educated deserves much applause and gratitude,” she said.

According to the Managing Director of Haillies Entertainment Mr Simon Chottu, It is a privilege to be working with Rosie Delmah again.

"Our management is very proud to be involved with the debut of such a beautiful, emotional song and we are looking forward in working closely with Miss Delmah in her current endeavour.

There are also others who have contributed their time and expertise, in making Miss Delmah’s current singles a hit.

DJ iKon from Nauru produces the beat, Nef and Chucki Juice helped with recording and analysing the vocals, while DJ Liams did the mastering of the song.

With the assistance received from these certain people, this mother's day special song is now released, which can be accessed through "cdbaby” - one of the most used music outlets on the web.

"Without the help and support I received, I don't think it would be possible to get the song done on time so I would like to offer much gratitude to all of you who has done so.”

Miss Rosie Delmah also would like to thank her fans for their patience and understanding.

She also confirmed that soon to follow is a video clip on the same song, which is currently being discussed.

By Alice Nantara
Haillies Entertainment Media

New Zealand’s premiere celebration of roots, rock and reggae festival ‘One Love’ is New Zealand’s most vibrant and popular summer festival.

Sharing the exciting news to the media, Jahboy said that he’s very grateful for this milestone achievement.

“I feel like all the hard work I’ve put in has paid off, and I’m so proud of my team at Rebelle Inc. “ Jahboy whose real name is Kirwan Hatigeva said.

“It is a big step and a big challenge, but I’ll do my best to represent my country.”

The ‘One Love’ festival will see Jahboy performing alongside a re-united UB40 with Ali Campbell, Astro and Micky, Ky-Mani Marley, Maxi Priest, Katchafire, Tomorrow People, House of Shem, Raging Fyah, L.A.B, Aaradhna, Fiji, Kolohe Kai, Finn Gruva, Paua, Latasha Lee, with a lot more big reggae names yet to be announced.

Jahboy’s manager, James Moore of Rebelle Inc. said that there are still lots to do leading up the One Love festival in January of 2019.

“Jahboy’s still got a lot of tours to other countries, performing and recording new material, performing gigs around town and rehearsals.”

Also in the works, Jahboy is working with an Austrian producer Syrix for his upcoming fourth album called ‘The Green Album’ which will be released in Europe.

With over 60 original songs recorded already, Jahboy puts it all down to dedication, passion and his love for Solomon Islands music.

“Solomon Islands artists are talented, creative and our music is unique to Solomon Islands. We are innovative creative producers who experiment with new stuff, we're always evolving, putting us a few steps ahead of the rest” Mr Moore said.

Jahboy hopes his music can be an inspiration to other upcoming artists to dream big and take their music to the next level.

“I'll do my best to carry my country's flag to NZ. I will help to promote my country, and hopefully create a gateway for other local artists to follow the path.”

The band has already toured Solomon Islands in May 2016, and this will be their second time here.

Heritage Park Hotel will be playing host again to the one night Car park show.

In a video announcement on Facebook, the band’s lead vocalist, Joaquin Quino McWhinney known by the reggae music family as ‘Quino’ said, they are looking forward to be coming back to Honiara.

“We are coming back, August 25.

“We are gonna be right back there, where you guys gave us the most amazing reception, sang all our songs.

“We gonna give you the good vibes all night long at the Heritage Hotel.

“We gonna do it again,” Quino said, in an official notice, on the band’s Facebook page.

Big Mountain (band) is the reggae band that holds the international crown as the King of Reggae.

Lead singer Quino has one of the most recognized voices in reggae and pop music.

Their fame spread quickly when they recorded a reggae version of Peter Frampton’s song “Baby I Love Your Way,” which was featured on the soundtrack of the Ben Stiller and Wynona Ryder movie Reality Bites.

Featuring Quino’s unique vocals, the hit single reached #1 on the U.S. charts and dominated the Top 5 in Europe and Japan for nearly a year!

The hit remains a favourite among people around the world, including new listeners alike.

Meanwhile, Heritage Park Hotel earlier said that tickets can be purchased at the front desk.

The prices are as follows; early bird $175 (limited), standard $250, and the VIP is charged at $700.

Only VIP ticket holders will have the chance to meet and greet the visiting Big Mountain band.

Local supporting artists for the night show are Jaro Local, Amy, Davu, and Sol Jay.

Gates open at 6:30pm.

By RONALD TOITO’ONA

Attended by a record of more than 2,000 concert goers, the show was one of the biggest concerts to be staged in the Solomon Islands capital town.

The visiting Caribbean Hip-hop and dance hall duo Theron and Timothy Thomas  rocked the stage like they used to with their hit single ‘Locked Away’ featuring Adam Levine of Maroon 5.

The Show started at 8pm with opening acts from local artists and bands headed by Da Black Wine, Ruff Neck, Blad P2A and DMP.

Rock City took the stage at around 11:00pm.

The duo performed with Deli Banger (producer of Fete You, Work on Me and various other Rock City hits) & Benny Demus (Akon’s Official DJ) during the show.

During the show, the brothers explained their hit single ‘Locked Away’ which is all about their father who was jailed for five years when they were little kids, leaving  the family behind with only their mother taking care of them. 

They also performed some of the world chat hit songs that they wrote and produced for several prominent international artists

The Thomas brothers have written and produced for several prominent artists, including Jamaican singer Sean Kingston ("Take You There"), American singer Miley Cyrus ("We Can't Stop"), Trinidadian rapper Nicki Minaj ("Only") and Barbadian popstar Rihanna ("Pour It Up")

The duo has also contributed to numerous Grammy-nominated albums, including Rihanna's Unapologetic (which won Best Urban Contemporary Album), Jennifer Hudson's self-titled album (which won Best R&B Album), and Ariana Grande's My Everything (which was nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album).

The Rock City pacific tour was arranged by the DMP’s band Manager and official DJ Victor Lopez in collaboration with Shadyville Australia and DMP.

The Rock City pacific tour started on Monday 18th November with the first show at the Hula Bar at The Islander Hotel in Rarotonga Cook Islands before coming to the Solomon Islands for Heritage park hotel show on 22nd November.

The band left the country yesterday to conclude the tour at the Cosmopolitan in Port Moresby PNG.

By BRYAN LUVENA

The album is produced by Hudson Matai a.k.a SON of the Shefram Studios in Honiara.

According to DMP Bradley Pitua, the album was on process when their promoter Victor Lopez introduced Da’Ville into the scene.

“The album is presently being recorded.

“When Da’Ville came to Honiara for the New Year’s Concert, Victor told us that it would be a good idea to have him featured in our album.

“So we recorded two songs with him together,” Pitua said.

When asked if Iyaz is going to be featured in any songs for the album, Pitua said it’s a definite yes.

“Iyaz will be featured in maybe one or two songs in the album.”

The international musical performer Iyaz with the real name, Keidran Jones will be touring Honiara for a single show at the Pacific Casino Hotel in Honiara on January 24th, 2020.

This new album will have about thirteen (13) songs, Pitua added.

He also assured DMP fans in the country, region and world that this album will be much more different from the first ones.

Da’Ville too was also super excited about the new collaboration.

“I had truly an amazing time collaborating with this amazing band DMP on 2 awesome tracks done and completed, right here in the Solomon Island.

“This is a perfect connection musically speaking indeed, so much more to come,” the Jamaican singer posted on his Facebook page.

In last week’s press conference before his NYE 2020 show, Da’Ville said he never heard about DMP until DJ Victor introduced them to him.

“When I check their skills and what was said to me and shown to me, they are huge,” the Jamaican sensation reggae artist said.

DMP’s promoter Victor also commented that watching Da’Ville collaborating with the band was truly amazing.

“On behalf of DMP and the boys it was a privilege and an honour to have worked alongside the legendary Da'Ville. 

“We cemented another historic moment for solo music and we are humbled and blessed that God made this happen for us!”

It was understood that so far the band has recorded three albums already, ‘Square One’, ‘Wine Up’, and ‘Projectile’.

This will be their fourth album since the formation of the band in 2006.

- By GEORGE MAELAGI
   SI Music ABN

DJ Lopez told the Solomon Star that the album has been in the making for two months now and they are still working on few more songs.

He said the band is hoping that the album will be completed by March this year, before they do more tours to Australia, New Zealand and other Pacific Island countries.

“The album has been in the making for a few months now.

“We have found a producer the guys enjoy working with and we have had local and international producers reaching out to be on the project.

“They are Hudson Matai and Deli Banger from Rock City, just to name a few.

“We have worked a few international collaborations this past year which will hopefully make the album cut. I can’t give away too much but this album will definitely take the group to another level,” the Australian-based promoter said.

He added that they are hoping to have the album complete by mid-February. 

“We have a few more songs to finalise and a few more surprise features installed for the Album.”

During Da’Ville’s short visit to the country for the New Year’s Eve show, the band did collaborate and recorded two songs with the Jamaican which will also be featured in the album.

 “My job simply was to get these respected international artists to listen to DMP’s music and really from there the rest is history and they ended up with collaboration. 

“DMP’s music speaks for itself! To be honest, it’s been a long time coming and DMP in my option are a world class act. I’m proud to be involved but mostly proud of my boys and the response they get alongside these artists,” said Lopez.

Mr Lopez told this paper that just in the studio session recently, Da’Ville was so impressed with the guys work that he wanted to work on a complete album with them.

“However due to timing it wasn’t possible,” he added.

But DJ Lopez said they are in talks with a US agent and once the album drops, DMP will be heading overseas to perform in those international markets.

“The boys are excited and humbled for the opportunity; many of these collaborations are made possible because the international artists have reached out to us. 

“We will be recording a song with IYAZ later this month which will also be featured on the album and a few other surprises installed for the fans,” said DJ Lopez.

IYAZ, a British Virgin Islander singer will begin his pacific tour this weekend and the Honiara show was schedule for Friday 24th January 2020 at the Pacific Casino Hotel.

By BRYAN LUVENA

Speaking in an interview with Paoa FM on Friday, Adams said the club has a lot of students learning piano and violin and they don’t have many resources and that there’s no many experience teachers available which leaves the kids having a lot to learn by themselves using YouTube and other forms.   

“We have come and we do a big teaching program with the students working with them and some of their teachers.

“We also doing some concerts where we play with the students and we also allow them to play by themselves which is a good training for them,” she added.

Adams said the training also includes how they can present themselves when they perform with the equipment and how to write their own music. 

She said on Wednesday, they have put on some of their musical performance at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) Children’s Ward with her violins as well as at the Heritage Park hotel.

“One of the other core things that we did with the British High Commissioner is we set up a Commonwealth music library that’s going into your public library system as off next week,” she said.          

She said the Dionysus Ensemble has started back in 2003 in London and they usually do a mixture of concerts and education projects.

Adams said just last year, they were approached by the Commonwealth to become the first ever musicians in residences for the Common Wealth, the first time they have musicians.

“It’s their first time to have their own professional musicians as part of the Commonwealth and we were so excited to be chosen,” she said.

She said they use the opportunity to tell every commonwealth country what they do and offer and to see if those countries are interested.

“We were fortunate that Solomon Islands immediately was first to say ‘yes we want it’ and so that’s why we are here,” she said.

Adams said her interest to play violin was developed from her parents as they have no chance to learn music when they were kids though involved a lot in choir doing singing.

“My parents didn’t have the chance to learn music when they were small but they loved it and they both sing a lot in the church Choir and other choirs,” she said.

Adams said she has two sisters and their parents were determined that the three of them should start learning something such as music.

“That’s when I thought it’s brilliant and so I decided with this forever,” she said.

She said one of the highlights in her carrier was in March last year when they were chosen to play at the Commonwealth Day, South East London, which was also internationally broadcast-ed on television and radio.

“I was also asked by the Palace to meet the Queen. She was so lovely and all of her family including, Charles & Camilla and Willian & Kate.”   

By IAN M.KAUKUI