PNG Local Artists

Tarvin Tounie thanks Latitude Zero Productions

And even if you say 2010 is too far back, Tarvin thinks it’s never too late to thank those responsible for his success to date.

In an interview with Loop PNG, Tarvin recounts how Latitude Zero Productions, not only inspired his career, but also gave him the push into the mainstream.

“I usually hang out with the boys here at the studio and seeing how they’d drop their tracks and sing, I will usually return home and try myself. I did this for a while until I decided to record one of my own,” Tarvin said.

Of course, he’s first single was with the LZP in 2010.

Sprigga Mek on Fusion Music

He is embracing this style that fuses urban techniques with contemporary traditional sounds. 

To Sprigga, this provides a better platform for all artists to deliver the message through the ever evolving phenomenon of music. 

Sprigga is currently in Vanuatu for the music festival Fest ‘Napuan 2016, which started last Wednesday, October 12, and will be ending today, October 16. 

Observing the style of music over the festival period, Sprigga said for a more reggae influenced society, Pacific artists have been embracing diverse styles of music.

A new direction in PNG’s music industry

For the Dumen Xtras, band member Kevin Aihphum says it’s now about collaboration.

Dumen Xtras is a collaboration of three of PNG’s well known vocalists; Gyat Lele, commonly associated with the name K-Dumen, and Kevin Aihphum, also from the K-Dumen band, with solo artist Mereani Masani.

Formed only recently, their songs like Seuna and Salamaua, sung with various other artists, have very quickly become audience favourites.

In a brief chat with Loop PNG, Kevin said collaboration is the direction all artists are taking now.

PNG musician says more artists releasing singles

From his personal observations, Sam believes this is because of piracy, an issue that continues to affect artists across the Pacific.

Sam Oeka, brother of well-known local singer Robert Oeka is not new to the music scene.

He was part of the former Hollie Maea band, before breaking away to work solo.

Experiencing the struggles of Pacific artists in this age of technology, he says it is harder for musicians to make money through the production of albums.

Gulf Isapea is a boastful song says composer

That’s how composer Sam Oeka describes his hit, currently sitting on fourth spot of Yumi FM’s top 20 hits.

The song, he says, is about the local rugby team - PRK Gulf Isapea.

Isapea means crocodile in the local Toaripe language (Gulf Province).

“Basically the song is about the Gulf Isapea team, referring them to crocodiles attacking,” he said.

Sam translates the song’s first verse as:

“This is my voice, hear my voice. Don’t be annoyed and just listen to my voice.  From the mountains to the beach, we are never afraid of you, we are crocodiles.”

POM residents commended for peaceful celebrations

Last night, before the performance of the Black Brothers, he took to the stage and  commended the public for turning up in big numbers to participate in the celebrations.

He said this was an expression of confidence for the country and for the future.

“I am very proud because of everyone who came out in their national colours and I am sure this was the same throughout the nation.