HUNDREDS of people gathered to celebrate two major musical concerts in Honiara on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2024.
Organizers of both shows, held at Heritage Park Hotel and Pacific Crown Hotel, reported sold-out tickets well before the concerts began.
At Heritage Park Hotel, DMP and Onetox headlined the event, joined by special guest Joaquin “Quino” McWhinney, the lead singer of Big Mountain.
Quino delighted fans with performances of Big Mountain’s hit songs, including “Baby I Love Your Way,” “Get Together,” “Sweet Sensual Love,” “Caribbean Blue,” “Kalapana Way,” and others.
This event also marked a significant moment for DMP and Onetox, as the two groups reunited after a decade-long separation caused by management and royalty disputes.
Their reconciliation ceremony before the show added emotional depth to the evening.
Events manager Lynette Adomea expressed her happiness with the strong turnout, noting that their team had anticipated competition from other hotels hosting similar New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Adomea confirmed that tickets, priced at $150 for general admission and $300 for VIP access, were completely sold out.
She commended the artists for showcasing their talents and delivering an evening filled with positive energy.
Adomea also thanked Heritage Park Hotel and Solbrew for sponsoring the event, as well as the fans for their enthusiastic support.
The night also included a somber moment, as DMP and Onetox paid tribute to Jeeno Maetia, a member of Shefram, who tragically passed away in an incident at Vura, East Honiara.
Meanwhile, the Pacific Crown Hotel hosted a peaceful and vibrant celebration, drawing a packed crowd to enjoy performances by local talents Sean Rii & Dezine, Jahboy, Sharzy, Ramo, Baleh, Buad, Young Davie, and Soul Jay. They were joined by international artists DJ Park and DJ Alexis, creating a diverse and entertaining lineup.
Sean Rii’s vocalist and event manager, Mike Alufuria, estimated that between 2,500 and 3,000 attendees were present.
Alufuria praised the event’s peaceful atmosphere and credited the MYK team for conceptualizing the show.
He also extended gratitude to Michael Leong, the owner of Pacific Crown Hotel, for providing the venue, as well as to the performing artists, production team, stage crew, and lighting team for their contributions.
Both events underscored the power of music to bring people together in celebration, making the New Year’s Eve festivities in Honiara truly memorable.
Another concert was also held at Hammock Beach to welcome 2025.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
