It was a milestone moment for Mal Maninga Kuri when his name was announced last Saturday as the awardee for Keynote Music House Listeners Choice Song of the Year award.
The award, the bright lights and being surrounded by other musicians is a big deal.
But the chanting of excited fans as he walked up on stage to receive his first ever award is something Kuri will remember for a long time.
It may have been the song Alawake which he featured fellow Engan artist Bata Rods, that shone the national spotlight on him.
But Kuri says all of this wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for his fans.
And similar case goes out for other local musicians, he said.
“We may write our songs, sing and produce it, but we are who we are because of our fans. You lose a fan, you lose it. Because of fans, artists have achieved a lot. And for my case, the recognition for the style of Engan music I’m bringing across,” he said.
Kuri was nominated for three categories in the 13th YumiFM PNG Musik Awards: Rookie of the year award, Duet of the year award, the Keynote Music House Listeners Choice Song of the Year award.
“Even though I got the award for only one category, being a nominee to three categories is still huge. My dream always was for Engan music to be recognised and just being nominated is recognition enough. I thank my fans for making this dream come true,” he said.