This would the first time for the reggae legend to visit the Solomon Islands to visit and the pacific islands and he is accompanied by his manager and the Australian based Music promoter and DJ Victor Lopez on the tour.

Major sponsors, Top Entertainment together with music promoter DJ Victor Lopez will be hosting the Rastafarian’s show.

Anthony B started his Australia Pacific islands tour with two sold-out shows in Australia at Melbourne on Saturday 22nd and Sydney on Sunday 23rd February.

From Australia, he flew to Vanuatu and did another show at the Club LIT in Vanuatu on Thursday 27th February.

 He traveling over to Fiji and spend the night at Fiji yesterday and will fly here later in the afternoon today for the one night show at the Pacific casino hotel tonight. 

The ‘World A Reggae Music’ singer with his deep Rastafarian connection has been a well-known figure besides ‘roots ganja advocators and poets’, Ini Kamoze, Damian Marley aka Junior Gong, Buju Banton, Sizzla Kolonjeh, Capleton to name a few where local reggae followers in the country have been following the music tradition since the 80s to 2000.

The singer/actor is a devoted member of the Rastafarian movement since a teenager, grew up in Clark’s town of Trelawny, Jamaica.

Influenced by fellow Jamaicans, the legendary Bob Marley, and Peter Tosh, you can definitely hear it in his vocal delivery and revolutionary attitude.

He also featured international artists the likes of, Haitian/American, ‘Sweetest Girl’ singer Wyclef Jean and the iconic American rapper Snoop Dogg.

In July 2013 he released Tribute to Legends, an album of cover versions of songs by artists such as Bob Marley, The Maytals, John Lennon, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and Ini Kamoze.

In 2016, Anthony B release a new album, Tears Of Luv on his label Born Fire Music and collaborate with various producers around the world including Evidence Music on his track Life Good.

Tickets for tonight’s show are currently out on sale at the Fast Link service shop Kukum Highway, pre-sold $150, VIP $300 (Meet & Greet) while during the show at the gate $250.

By BRYAN LUVENA 

The track will be the 5th international featured for the band’s upcoming 4th album which has been in the making for a few months now. 

DMP and Anthony B also did a video clip shooting of the track with Scardy on Tuesday morning before Anthony left the country in the afternoon.

DMP’s raga general Evin Rush expressed his excitement for the collaboration said it’s been a blessing to work with Anthony B since he was a longtime favorite of the boys.

“It’s a dream come true for me and the boys, to have him collaborating with us it’s a blessing from above thanks to the almighty.

“To the fans, thanks always for being there for us during the hustle and patience during the past years and we hope everyone will enjoy the upcoming new album,’’ said Evin.

DMP’s band manager and promoter DJ Victor Lopez said the group is excited and humbled to work with the international artist on the new project.

 ‘’Everyone in the group is excited and humbled for these artists to want to work on the new project.

“These collaborations have come organically which makes it all that more special, you can’t force these types of things and we are blessed to be given that love from artists we admire and are influential in our group’s success,” said the Australian based promoter.

“The collaboration is next level and we can’t wait to share our new music to the world and we have signed to a new record label and a great team behind us so the fans won’t be disappointed with the new album.

“About 80% of the album is complete, we will be sending our tracks to Jamaica to get mixed & mastered and will be released in a few months’ time.

“It will be well worth the wait and we hope all the fans are excited as much as we are for the album to drop,” said Lopez.

Lopez added that he also finished a mixtape of all the DMP old 105 songs mixed into 80 minutes which they will drop it as a promotional thing for the fans before they drop the album.

The band aims to drop 12 to 15 songs for the upcoming album which 9 of them are already completed.

Five international features in the upcoming album included a track with Anthony B, 1 with IYAZ, 1 with Rock City and 2 with Da’Ville.

By BRYAN LUVENA

Oge with the support from another Solomon Islands renowned music artist, Paeva recently released a song called “Justice for Jenelyn” a tribute to the late 19-year-old Jenelyn Kennedy of Papua New Guinea (PNG) who lost her life from torture from her husband last week.

The song’s message shares the sorrow of a young woman who underwent one of the very brutal violence a woman has to go through and the call to have a fair trial against her perpetrator. 

Oge highlighted that the song targets the next generation to be aware of such violence against women.

 “The song is a tribute song to the late Jenelyn Kennedy of PNG who endured brutal gender violence until her death.

“The message in this song goes for the surviving victims, relatives, and also to the men.

“This is also a message to the next generation to learn from,” he said.

Oge urges all men to show respect towards women despite whatever situation.

“We, the men should show respect towards our women.

“When we see women, we think of our mothers, sisters, and relatives.

“It is true that at times we get disappointed over issues, but we must always take heed to control ourselves and follow the right approach to solve problems,” he added.

Oge said there are many survivors of domestic violence but tend to hide their abuse for years. 

He added that some never spoke a word of such violence to anyone, not their parents, friends, no one.

His hope is that other survivors and their relatives hear the song and realize there is hope for a better life after the trauma. 

Oge has received calls and emails from women victims of gender-based violence both from abroad and in-country thanking him for the song.

He also urged other musicians to help fight against violence against women and other issues affecting the country.

He stressed music is a powerful tool to spread important messages across the nation.

You can listen to the song here: https://bit.ly/Tribute_-

By CARLOS ARUAFU

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

This would the first time for the reggae legend to visit the Solomon Islands to visit and the pacific islands and he is accompanied by his manager and the Australian based Music promoter and DJ Victor Lopez on the tour.

Major sponsors, Top Entertainment together with music promoter DJ Victor Lopez will be hosting the Rastafarian’s show.

Anthony B started his Australia Pacific islands tour with two sold-out shows in Australia at Melbourne on Saturday 22nd and Sydney on Sunday 23rd February.

From Australia, he flew to Vanuatu and did another show at the Club LIT in Vanuatu on Thursday 27th February.

 He traveling over to Fiji and spend the night at Fiji yesterday and will fly here later in the afternoon today for the one night show at the Pacific casino hotel tonight. 

The ‘World A Reggae Music’ singer with his deep Rastafarian connection has been a well-known figure besides ‘roots ganja advocators and poets’, Ini Kamoze, Damian Marley aka Junior Gong, Buju Banton, Sizzla Kolonjeh, Capleton to name a few where local reggae followers in the country have been following the music tradition since the 80s to 2000.

The singer/actor is a devoted member of the Rastafarian movement since a teenager, grew up in Clark’s town of Trelawny, Jamaica.

Influenced by fellow Jamaicans, the legendary Bob Marley, and Peter Tosh, you can definitely hear it in his vocal delivery and revolutionary attitude.

He also featured international artists the likes of, Haitian/American, ‘Sweetest Girl’ singer Wyclef Jean and the iconic American rapper Snoop Dogg.

In July 2013 he released Tribute to Legends, an album of cover versions of songs by artists such as Bob Marley, The Maytals, John Lennon, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and Ini Kamoze.

In 2016, Anthony B release a new album, Tears Of Luv on his label Born Fire Music and collaborate with various producers around the world including Evidence Music on his track Life Good.

Tickets for tonight’s show are currently out on sale at the Fast Link service shop Kukum Highway, pre-sold $150, VIP $300 (Meet & Greet) while during the show at the gate $250.

By BRYAN LUVENA 

The track will be the 5th international featured for the band’s upcoming 4th album which has been in the making for a few months now. 

DMP and Anthony B also did a video clip shooting of the track with Scardy on Tuesday morning before Anthony left the country in the afternoon.

DMP’s raga general Evin Rush expressed his excitement for the collaboration said it’s been a blessing to work with Anthony B since he was a longtime favorite of the boys.

“It’s a dream come true for me and the boys, to have him collaborating with us it’s a blessing from above thanks to the almighty.

“To the fans, thanks always for being there for us during the hustle and patience during the past years and we hope everyone will enjoy the upcoming new album,’’ said Evin.

DMP’s band manager and promoter DJ Victor Lopez said the group is excited and humbled to work with the international artist on the new project.

 ‘’Everyone in the group is excited and humbled for these artists to want to work on the new project.

“These collaborations have come organically which makes it all that more special, you can’t force these types of things and we are blessed to be given that love from artists we admire and are influential in our group’s success,” said the Australian based promoter.

“The collaboration is next level and we can’t wait to share our new music to the world and we have signed to a new record label and a great team behind us so the fans won’t be disappointed with the new album.

“About 80% of the album is complete, we will be sending our tracks to Jamaica to get mixed & mastered and will be released in a few months’ time.

“It will be well worth the wait and we hope all the fans are excited as much as we are for the album to drop,” said Lopez.

Lopez added that he also finished a mixtape of all the DMP old 105 songs mixed into 80 minutes which they will drop it as a promotional thing for the fans before they drop the album.

The band aims to drop 12 to 15 songs for the upcoming album which 9 of them are already completed.

Five international features in the upcoming album included a track with Anthony B, 1 with IYAZ, 1 with Rock City and 2 with Da’Ville.

By BRYAN LUVENA

Oge with the support from another Solomon Islands renowned music artist, Paeva recently released a song called “Justice for Jenelyn” a tribute to the late 19-year-old Jenelyn Kennedy of Papua New Guinea (PNG) who lost her life from torture from her husband last week.

The song’s message shares the sorrow of a young woman who underwent one of the very brutal violence a woman has to go through and the call to have a fair trial against her perpetrator. 

Oge highlighted that the song targets the next generation to be aware of such violence against women.

 “The song is a tribute song to the late Jenelyn Kennedy of PNG who endured brutal gender violence until her death.

“The message in this song goes for the surviving victims, relatives, and also to the men.

“This is also a message to the next generation to learn from,” he said.

Oge urges all men to show respect towards women despite whatever situation.

“We, the men should show respect towards our women.

“When we see women, we think of our mothers, sisters, and relatives.

“It is true that at times we get disappointed over issues, but we must always take heed to control ourselves and follow the right approach to solve problems,” he added.

Oge said there are many survivors of domestic violence but tend to hide their abuse for years. 

He added that some never spoke a word of such violence to anyone, not their parents, friends, no one.

His hope is that other survivors and their relatives hear the song and realize there is hope for a better life after the trauma. 

Oge has received calls and emails from women victims of gender-based violence both from abroad and in-country thanking him for the song.

He also urged other musicians to help fight against violence against women and other issues affecting the country.

He stressed music is a powerful tool to spread important messages across the nation.

You can listen to the song here: https://bit.ly/Tribute_-

By CARLOS ARUAFU

There are six boys in the band with a band manager, Timothy Houkarawa. 

On the 27th of February 2021, the band received two brand new sub-woofers, two front house sound monitors, a power amplifier, drive rack and cables from the Member of Parliament (MP) for Central Honiara Alfred Efona, a statement from Central Honiara Constituency Office said.

When asked about why the MP for Central Honiara Constituency chose to support the band, he said that he recognized the band for the inspiring peaceful songs that it has produced from the talent within the band and from the community activities the band have engaged in at helping young people throughout the last 5 years. 

Mr Efona, also mentioned that the support he gave is to acknowledge the important role that both, youths and music plays on spreading peaceful messages of peace and hope through the word of God. 

MP Efona, acknowledges that to be able to encourage youths in bands like Peace Divine Ministry, share their gifts with the world, is just as important as being a member of parliament. 

“As the Member of Parliament for Central Honiara, I won’t be able to positively influence others on their level through music and thus by helping them through this support, it will inspire other young men and women to follow God and become young leaders with Integrity who can then go on to become role models for other youths within their respective community and this is what I hope to achieve at the end. 

“I am inspired to support bands like Peace Divine Ministries solely because of what they produce and bring into the lives of young people, musically, especially through Godly values and introducing other young members of our society to Christ,” he said.

The MP continues by saying that; “ultimately in the end, as Christians and leaders in our own individual rights, we are talented in different areas of our lives and we should always be reminded of the fact, that what we have, in terms of our gifts and talents, is not for our own selfish ambitions, but to give God all the glory. 

“If this band can produce and share music of hope, peace and encouragement and touch the lives of young men and women, introducing them to Christ and giving them a sense of purpose and hope, then I will support such a band,” he said.

Without downplaying the many talents and gifts of other youths throughout Central Honiara Constituency, the MP also mentioned that to see young men live for Christ and use their talent and gifts for God and glorify God, is an encouraging sight indeed but he also recognized that it is also not, an easy path to follow. 

“It really challenges us to our core, especially in terms of our priorities, relationships and schedules and most importantly our values on things that are secular and things eternal.  

“I am humbled to be able to have this opportunity to support the Peace Divine Ministry boy band and I look forward to many more young talented bands as such, to champion the cause of spreading the word of God through messages of peace, hope and purpose,” he said.

The band’s manager Timothy Houkarawa, thanked the MP for his support and highlighted that this will be a huge encouragement for the boys indeed, especially in the song writing and live worship performances of the band. 

He also made mention of the fact that the support rendered by the MP, is truly history in the making. The band manager, claims that he never expected a Member of Parliament (MP) especially for a Constituency like Central Honiara, to hone in on things such as music and be able to recognize youths and their talents for making music that shares the gospel, especially when the music industry locally and globally, is more accustomed to themes and issues that are secular and more trendy with the popular culture in the Solomons.

Mr Houkarawa, also acknowledges that as a member of Central Honiara, this is truly a first of its kind for any Member of Parliament of Central Honiara to come out openly and support a local Christian gospel music band in this genre of music in particular. 

It is historical and it is also sentimental, he added. 

“Our Honorable MP is truly down to earth a person that can be accessible by the people and by supporting our band, he has shown that there is still light at the end of the tunnel. 

“From this support we are getting the message clearly from the current Honorable that indeed Change is coming to the people and it is now here. If he can do this in the limited time he has been given, think of what he can accomplish, if he had a full four year term to work with the people in the Central Honiara Constituency.” 

The Band Manager thanked the MP for his timely support and is looking forward to more youths coming to know Christ through the use of the musical equipment and from the engagements they will have with different communities throughout the country and in the music industry. 

Steggah, Cape, and Ismuki were among other artists supported by Gizo Hotel Management that hosted a music show at the Gizo’s Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) building, and calling on members of the public to donate whatever amount of money they could towards the Hospital. 

Tour Manager Mr. Morris said the tour group had travelled to West last week in which they performed in Gizo, Munda, and Ranogga.

“Our visit to Ranogga was to open the recent beach soccer competition and that was a voluntary show we offered for the promotion of sports and so when approached by Gizo Hotel Management on doing a fundraiser for the hospital we were very happy to be part of it.”

Speaking to the artists who lit up the MSG building with their music, they replied with appreciation and acknowledgment to their tour manager and hotel management for organizing the fundraiser for an essential service received from Gizo Hospital.

“Though this was a short fundraising program, we are very happy to be a part of it and our part is just a small contribution in comparison to the heartfelt contribution given by the people who came to the fundraising show,” says artists Cape, Steggah and Ismuki.

Upon handing over the collected donations to Gizo Hospital’s Director for Western Provincial Medical Services, Dr. Dickson Boara gratefully accepted the donation and said it would be deposited in the hospital’s bank account.

“The donation handed to me will be deposited into our bank account and enter its process towards being used to feed our patients currently admitted in our facility and this is very much helpful.”

The fundraising show was held for three hours.

By TERENCE ZIRU
Gizo News Bureau

Based on William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Hamlet, The Chief’s Son is set to give local audiences a relatable feel to the perennial classic – re-scripted with a Pacific tone.

The show is set to be performed at the National Museum Auditorium on five separate occasions from 11 – 15 June.

Dreamcast Theatre in a statement today while promoting the show, said The Chief’s Son is the product of three months in intense preparations and a milestone achievement for the young theatre group.

The Chief’s Son involves a blend of the original script settings and English-speaking characters while adapting local concepts familiar to Solomon Islanders. 

Dreamcast Creative Director, Neil Nuia says local audiences and Shakespeare fans will love this Hamlet rendition that retains the complexity of the characters and relives the melancholy, bitter, and cynical plots.

“But I think the bigger picture here is how The Chief’s Son will help in our development as a theatre company in the region, the young actors and artists involved and of course the influence it could have on the wider scope of the arts industry in the country,” Neil says.

He says their biggest supporter at the moment, is sheer passion.

“So far, we do not have any major support outside of Dreamcast to financially push us in this project, but this is not something we’re not used to. We will use whatever means that we have because most of the time we’re doing this voluntarily.” 

“This is why I have so much respect for all my young colleagues involved. They have sacrificed a lot to get us this far.”

Neil urged the public to show their support for the young actors and artists involved in The Chief’s Son, who had gone through exhausting daily rehearsals over the past three months.

Tickets are currently selling at $50 for adults, $30 for children and free entry for children under the age of nine.

The Chief’s Son is written and directed by Rosalind Lawry, a New Zealand theatre director who has a wealth of experience in professional creative and performing arts.

Rosalind is in the country accompanying her husband but had volunteered to work with Dreamcast Theatre.

“Dreamcast actors share these things with every other actor in the world and putting them into practice is also the same. Rehearsals after rehearsals getting it right, getting it wrong and more rehearsals,” Rosalind says.

“The cast of The Chief's Son have claimed this story, navigating their journey with all the passion and fun that a tale inspired by a Shakespearean character deserves.” 

Chief’s Son lead actor Quinzy Kwahn who stars as Malo – the Hamlet equivalent – says the cast are really happy to work with Rosalind and have used the opportunity to learn as much as they can. 

Although it comes with challenges, the 27-year-old admits. 

“Most of our shows are usually done in our native pidgin, but with The Chief’s Son, it’s a full English script. Actors will need to throw in that extra effort in speaking a language out of our comfort zone.

“I’m not saying it’s a bad thing, it’s actually good for us. It’s a good challenge that will help us grow.”

To book tickets visit the Dreamcast Theatre Solomon Islands Facebook Page or call Robert on 7585911.

According to band manager and promoter, Victor Lopez, “the boys recently entered as the first Solomon Islands artists into the DMA.”

“They made it top 3 in the Oceania continental round against countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea (PNG) and qualified into the finals against the top 3 from Africa, Asia, North America, Europe, & South America (Top 18 Finalists).”

Djooky Music Awards is the world’s largest music competition - it’s bigger than Eurovision with over 2369 nominations from 129 countries.

DMP won for the Best Reggae song and DMP’s Mostyn Hani, known by the stage name ‘Mossa’ also won the Best Afrobeat song this season.

DMP’s Bradley Pitua known by his artist name ‘Blad P2A’  was also part of the online competition.

In the overall competition DMP came 2nd Place, ‘Mossa’ took out 3rd Place, and ‘Blad P2A’ placed 8th in the world. DMP received 5,060 Votes, Mossa received 4,324 Votes & Blad P2A received 2,747 votes which means 12,000 people voted for our boys.

The recap video can be watched on https://youtu.be/-hBUgMBHx4M

Mr. Lopez also said DMP will be entering next season's Djooky Competition in 3 months’ time.

“I feel that the boys can actually win the competition with help of the nation behind them,” he stated.

Meanwhile, in another good news, DMP has recently signed with the biggest independent reggae label ‘ineffable records’ out in Los Angeles, United States of America (USA) and is due to release their first single from the new album. 

“We have 80% of the album completed with collaborations with world-renowned artists like ‘Anthony B, Iyaz, Da’Ville, Collie Buddz, and Konshens. 

“Ineffable Records just released the ‘Cali Roots Riddim 2021’ project which includes our new single ‘Everybody Waiting’ produced by Collie Buddz and Johnny Cosmic from Stick Figure. The project consists of 27 versions from the best reggae artists in the world including Alborosie, Anthony B, Konshens, Kabaka Pyramid, Kolohe Kai, Demarco & Turbulence just to name a few,” Lopez told the Solomon Star via email.

It is understood that the latest album that will be coming out soon has been the talk of the region in recent months.

By FOLLET JOHN
Newsroom, Honiara

John Adifaka Jr told the Solomon Star in a statement on Wednesday.

He said that ‘Friends of Kilu’ufi’ consists of various Malaitans living and working in Auki including some community leaders and doctors at Kilufi as well.

“The fundraising drive is purposely to assist the hospital build a new workshop to construct prosthetic legs (false leg) for diabetic patients at the hospital,” he said.

Adifaka confirmed that the fundraising will kick off this Friday 16th and Saturday 17th with live music show for the public at the Auki Central Square from 10am to 12noon.

“The public are welcome to come and show their support in a way of giving and donations towards the good cause,” Adifaka added.

Then on Friday & Saturday night there’ll be a dance night organised at the Hotel Malaita where public can pay to enter and enjoy great classic music from the band.

Friends of Kilu’ufi are calling on everyone in & around Auki and from the North to South roads to please come along and support the fundraising. 

Adifaka also added that most members of The ROOTS Band are Malaitans and they are really happy to be part of this good cause to help Kilufi hospital in this fundraising.

Meanwhile, band Spokesperson Edmond Tonisi said they are looking forward to the trip and hope it will be a successful one. 

By ANDREW FANASIA
Newsroom, Honiara