THE Bonfire Festival 2024 was an exciting event for both fans and the musicians involved.
The event held on Saturday at the Heritage Park Hotel carpark drew a sea of crazy fans.
The renowned Papua New Guinea (PNG) “Pikinini Niu Aelan” singer Tonton Malele headlined the show with his band members Jayrex and Nene Morus, performing their famous hit songs.
Speaking to the media, Malele said it was an honor to be part of Bonfire 2024.
“I am very honored indeed to being invited and to be part of the music festival event.
“It is my first time to perform here in Solomon Islands and join my brothers here and give a good show.
“I look forward for more of such collaboration with Jaro Local and other music legends here.
“Tonight, I performed some of my hit songs like Pikinini Niu Aelan song and others that I prepared on my playlist for my fans here.
“I want to give a big shout out to all my fans here in the country and those behind this show like Jaro Local and the sponsors as well.”
Vanuatu’s Sharon Nicolls (AKA Shazza) and DJ Bronson, also known as DJ Takz man also performed on the show, thrilling their fans.
Speaking to local journalists, Shazza said it was a great opportunity for her to perform in another country.
“It is great to represent my country in the show and it’s very exciting. The crowd is really good. There are so many people and the energy is here.
“I did deliver a good show and it is more than I expected.”
Shazza encouraged female artists in the country not to be scared in taking risks and using their resources and talents.
“There are other platforms like social media and manage your time very well. If you want to excel in music, then make time for it,” she said.
Shazza also acknowledged her fans and sponsors who she said have all made the show an amazing one.
A local artist and member of the Black Wine Band, popularly known as Paeva, said it was a privilege for him to perform with young musicians and help promote Solomon Islands music.
“So as seasoned musician, it is a joy and to be around other good musicians, good people, giving good music to people and sharing the message of love and peace with others.
“Tonight is another accomplishment not only for us the musicians but for our fans and Solomon Islands as a whole.
“Every time we go overseas to perform and so it’s good to organize and have our very own music festival like this one.
“Yes, it’s good that we have attracted musicians from Vanuatu and PNG to this show,” Paeva said.
Other artists who performed at the festival were Onetox, Jah Boy, Eddie Fiti, Young Davie, Dehvande, Ismuki, Joe Briz, Kayler, SoulJay/Unik7 Band, Cottsii, Stoney B, Ozberg Crew, Colleagues Band and DJ Tanz. Comedian Solobwoy was the Master of Ceremony (MC).
As the main sponsor of the event, Our Telekom is proud to support The Bonfire Festival and showcase the best of Solomon Islands music.
This music event is a testament to Our Telekom’s commitment to promoting local musicians and unity in diversity through music.
The Heritage Park Hotel, Visit Solomon Islands, Solomon Airlines, Unisound Entertainment, NIU-online, Rhythm House, Kutchie’s Lighting, Australian Direct Suppliers, New Hope, and Prime Time Graphics & Print have also contributed towards the hosting of this show.
By RAYMOND HULANGA
Solomon Star, Honiara
