Page 44 - IB November 2024

Music Music

Chris Kamu’ana Rohoimae (centre) and band mates

SPIRIT, VIBRANCY, ART

SOLOMONS SINGER DOMINATES

By Rowena Singh dance, taking place in March 2025.
Rohoimae regards this award as a heartfelt tribute to
Chris Kamu'ana Rohoimae, a talented artist from the his late father crediting him with influencing, mentoring,
Solomon Islands, has emerged victorious in the ABC Pacific and inspiring him, particularly in the creation of this song,
Break 2024 competition. This achievement marks a significant which he had written alongside him before his passing in the
milestone in his career, showcasing his unique musical style hospital. This connection imbues the music with even greater
and cultural heritage. His win not only brings him well- significance for Rohoimae.
deserved recognition but also serves as an inspiration for Rohoimae says that winning the Pacific Break award was a
other aspiring musicians in the Pacific region. bit emotional for him.
Rohoimae's success reflects the vibrant artistic spirit of the “It’s has been a long, long, long way for me,” says
Solomon Islands and highlights the importance of supporting Rohoimae. “I've been wondering if my feelings are to do with
local talent on a broader platform. my dad. He has been my mentor and my inspiration for my
Pacific Break, a prestigious contest, and the largest music music. And so, when I first realised I was the winner, I felt
competition in the Pacific region, welcomes unsigned artists a bit emotional. I don’t know how to explain it, but at that
residing in the Pacific and Timor-Leste. Organised by ABC moment, I thought about what he would say to me if he were
Pacific, the competition has been celebrating emerging talent there and how happy he would be.”
since its inception in 2008. For him, being a winner is a source of immense pride. It
Rohoimae won the competition with his first-ever recording goes beyond just the accolade; it represents the dedication
‘Naratana Manu’. More than 300 songs from eighteen nations and effort Rohoimae and his father both have invested in his
across the Pacific were submitted to the 2024 contest. As his journey. This achievement not only validates their hard work
award, he will now be part of the line-up for WOMADelaide, but also strengthens Rohoimae’s resolve to continue pursuing
Australia’s largest international festival of music, arts, and his passion.

44 Islands Business, November 2024