In 2023, Papua New Guinea’s musical talent reached new heights when Ansolom Nakikus claimed the “Band of The Year” award in Atlanta, Georgia. This remarkable achievement marked a breakthrough moment for PNG music on the international stage, proving that our artists can compete with and defeat the world’s best.
Nakikus’s victory wasn’t just about individual talent; it represented the culmination of PNG’s rich musical heritage meeting international recognition. Our nation has always been blessed with incredible musical diversity, from traditional string bands to contemporary fusion styles.
This award showed that PNG music has evolved while maintaining its unique Pacific identity. The Atlanta competition brought together musicians from across the globe, making Nakikus’s victory even more significant. Competing against established international acts, he demonstrated that PNGartists possess the creativity, skill, and stage presence to captivate audiences anywhere in the world.
What made this achievement particularly inspiring was how it showcased PNG’s cultural confidence. Nakikus didn’t try to imitate international styles; instead, he brought authentically PNG music to the world stage. His success proved that our unique Pacific sound has universal appeal when performed with passion and professionalism.
The victory also highlighted the growing international appetite for Pacific music. From Justin Wellington’s global hit “My Bestie” to Nakikus’s award-winning performances, PNG artists are finding audiences far beyond our shores. This represents a new chapter in our cultural export story.
For young Papua New Guinean musicians, Nakikus’s triumph provides inspiration and validation. It shows that with talent, dedication, and the right opportunities, PNG artists can achieve international recognition while staying true to their cultural roots.
As we celebrate 50 years of independence, Ansolom Nakikus’s success reminds us that PNG’s cultural contributions extend far beyond our borders, enriching the global musical landscape with our unique Pacific voices.
Staff Writer
PNG50
Explore the rich narratives of our heritage.
As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025, we stand ready to celebrate an incredible journey from independence to nationhood, honouring our founding fathers and mothers while embracing the bright future that awaits our diverse nation.
Two years after independence, Papua New Guinea held its first parliamentary elections in 1977, marking the transition from colonial administration to genuine self-governance as citizens across our diverse nation exercised their democratic rights for the first time.
In 2009, Papua New Guinea received approval for the transformative PNG LNG Project, a $19 billion investment that would position PNG as a major player in the global energy market and reshape our nation’s economic future.