Solomon Islander Chris Kamu’ana Rohoimae Wins Pacific Break 2024

Chris Kamu’ana Rohoimae, a rising music artist from the Solomon Islands and finalist in the Pacific Break 2024 competition, was taken by shock when he received a call from Nesia Daily, thinking it was for an interview.

To his surprise, the call was to announce that he had won the prestigious competition. Nesia Daily’s hosts Jacob McQuire and Michael Chow told him over the phone that he won the competition. overwhelmed and lost for words, Chris and his family became emotional as the reality of the moment sank in.

In the heartfelt reveal, Chris spoke about the deep personal connection between his winning debut track and his late father, to whom he had dedicated the song. They were able to listen to “Naratana manu” together in the hospital before his father passed away.

He explained that the track “Naratana manu” – meaning the birds crying was not just a musical piece, but a tribute to the influence and inspiration his father had been in his life. Winning the competition felt like a profound acknowledgment of his father’s legacy, and Chris expressed how this victory symbolized a way to honor and keep his memory alive.

When asked by Nesia Daily’s host whether he thought his song would make him the winner, Chris Rohoimae responded with humility and confidence. He explained that while he didn’t think about winning, he believed deeply in his music and the message it carried.

He will be preparing to carry the message and his culture to Australia next year to perform at the iconic open-air festival set in Adelaide’s stunning Botanic Park. WOMADelaide is an award-winning celebration of the very best of the World of Music, Arts & Dance. From the 7th – 10th of March, 2025.

Chris emphasized that his connection to his art went beyond competition—it was about sharing something genuine.

He took the opportunity to advise young music artists to embrace their roots and learn from their elders, highlighting the importance of traditional knowledge.

Specifically, he mentioned the Are’are music flute, an iconic instrument from his culture, urging young musicians to explore and preserve these traditional sounds. By doing so, he believed they could create music that resonates deeply, blending the old with the new.

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