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Articles by Rick Howe
Program: Kramon joins the Island Music studio from Honiara
Solomon Islands dancehall artist Kramon joins the Island Music studio for an interview from Honiara, talking about life, survival and chasing dreams in his anthem ‘Hustle Hard’. Bringing a raw, hard-hitting Jamaican-style dancehall sound, Kramon shares the realities behind the music, accompanied by a video shot entirely on a mobile phone. Plus, brand new music from Island Music's favourite voice in the Pacific, Fijian singer Nicky Beddoes.
Program: Nyssa Collins flies the flag for Samoa
Aotearoa's Nyssa Collins is flying the flag for Samoa with her new tune ‘Teine Samoa’, a celebration of Samoan identity and pride. From Solomon Islands, Kayler puts her own spin on ‘Oi Emu Hula Hula’, originally released by PNG singer Cathy Lee Chan in 2018, bringing a fresh Pacific interpretation to the song. Rounding out the show, Fiji's Mohelata returns with ‘Kabikabi’, the latest release from the VT1S collective.
Program: New sounds from Fiji with Tulagi
This week on Island Music, the spotlight falls on one of Fiji's rising stars, Tulagi, with his new single ‘Nau’. Real name Ratu Emosi Lagilagi, Tulagi hails from Nabitu in Tailevu and won Fiji's Vocal Battle competition in 2023 before joining the hugely successful VT1S collective. Earlier this year he made his VT1S debut with ‘Sevataki’ on the Ga Ni Vatualbum, and now he's back with more new music.
Program: A big week for new music out of Fiji
Fiji is coming through heavy this week with a stack of new music. VT1S are back with new releases featuring Kali Tui, Liz Vamarasi and Kayzia - fresh off Kayzia’s debut performance with VT1S at the VT1S Beach Party in Nadi over the weekend. Plus new music from Mila Karikaritu and Oni. Also new music from Meanjin/Brisbane-based Tongan and Fijian R&B singer SEPI.
Program: 50yrs of UB40 ft. Robin Campbell & Matt Campbell
UB40’s Robin Campbell and Matt Campbell join Island Music in the studio to talk about the band’s upcoming Australian and New Zealand tour, celebrating almost 50 years of UB40. Also introducing Last Bus Home, a new band out of Fiji featuring William Sanday aka KidLxght on vocals, guitar and bass, Lili Soakai aka Maré Karisa on vocals, Naiqama on drums and percussion, and Francisco Bhagwan on keys and backing vocals.
Program: Marama return with new music from Fiji
This week on Sista Sounds: Fiji’s first all-female band Marama are back with new music, returning with their new single ‘Siwa’. Closer to home, Narrm/Melbourne flute player and vocalist Kasinda steps out with her debut release ‘This Life’, blending her vocals and flute on an impressive first release. Plus, traditional Samoan sounds from one of Samoa’s most influential bands, Tiama’a.
Program: Celebrating Vanuatu on Sista Sounds
Celebrating Vanuatu Independence Day with new music from one of the country's leading voices, Vanessa Quai, alongside a tribute to Vanuatu kava from Solomon Islands singer Kayler. Voice of Lele delivers a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Augustinas Rumwaropen of the legendary Black Brothers, in a deeply personal new release. Plus, Fiji's Mohelata returns to the VT1S family with another scorching new single, 'Sega'.
Island Music - ABC Pacific
Island Music is a weekly reggae, dancehall and RnB show with a focus on the Pacific region. Hosted by leading Australian reggae DJ Rick Howe, it features new and vintage reggae, dancehall and RnB from around the world.
Program: Celebrating Vanuatu on Sista Sounds
Celebrating Vanuatu Independence Day with new music from one of the country's leading voices, Vanessa Quai, alongside a tribute to Vanuatu kava from Solomon Islands singer Kayler. Voice of Lele delivers a heartfelt tribute to her late father, Augustinas Rumwaropen of the legendary Black Brothers, in a deeply personal new release. Plus, Fiji's Mohelata returns to the VT1S family with another scorching new single, 'Sega'.
Program: Bougainville's DJ Matro leads this week’s Island Music heat
This week on Island Music: Bougainville producer DJ Matro delivers three new tracks featuring vocalists Javarhyme and Nastii, showcasing fresh modern sounds coming out of PNG’s autonomous region. From Samoa, Tiene Hamo does her version of Don Davaney’s Someone Loves You Honey, reworking the reggae favourite with smooth Pacific soul flavour. And from Solomon Islands, new music from Elexter Jr and Capehenslow keeps the 677 vibes flowing with more fresh island sounds.
Program: J Boog and Busy Signal have a hit on their hands
J Boog teams up with Busy Signal on Juggling Sweet, produced by German reggae specialists Silly Walks Discotheque. With its infectious hook and feel-good energy, the track has all the ingredients of a summer anthem and is shaping up to be one of the most played songs on Island Music this year. From Fiji, Kali Tui returns with Tadra, composed by Jerome Tauleka and produced by Tropic Thunda and Unikk. The latest VT1S release adds another strong entry to the singer's growing catalogue.
Program: NAIDOC special featuring Wanta Jampijinpa
This week on Island Music: As NAIDOC Week begins, the spotlight falls on the powerful new project Crown & Country, featuring an interview with Wanta Jampijinpa Pawu-Kurlpurlurnu and producer Monkey Marc. Blending Warlpiri culture with contemporary music, the album is a celebration of Country, language and storytelling, making it a fitting centrepiece for this week's program.
Program: Celebrating 50 years of NAIDOC Week
This week on Sista Sounds: Celebrating 50 years of NAIDOC Week with a program dedicated entirely to Indigenous artists from across Australia. Featuring new music from Zipporah, daughter of Christine Anu, alongside some of the country's most exciting First Nations voices. We'll also hear from acclaimed Gumbaynggirr and Noongar soul singer Emma Donovan, whose powerful voice has made her one of Australia's most respected performers.
Program: Voices from West Papua and PNG
This week on Island Music: West Papuan artist Voice of Lele joins forces with Australian-Jamaican singer Nattali Rize on Border Crosser. Released during World Refugee Week, the powerful collaboration explores identity, belonging and hope through the lens of Lele's experience as the daughter of West Papuan refugees.
It's time to be more social
Local Democrats are just too middle of the road, maintain-the-status-quo sorts. Well, Democratic Socialism is on the rise, and it has naught to do with communism. Democratic Socialists do not want to share a home or a bed or an apartment building with you. We want to live by moral principles pretty common to worldwide faith groups: take care of the poor, the ill, the homeless, care for the Earth before the rich grab their gobs of cash.
Program: Pacific women making waves
Fiji's Sinu returns with her new single Rewa, the follow-up to Future Me on Mangrove Records. The emerging singer continues to carve out her own lane with another confident release from one of Fiji's most exciting young voices. Also from Fiji, VT1S artist Kali Tui drops Tadra, produced by Jay Tauleka and Tropic Thunda. Following a string of standout releases, Kali once again showcases the songwriting and vocal style that have made her a favourite among Pacific music fans.
Smol Fyah - ABC Pacific
This week on Island Music, a preview of the forthcoming debut album I Believe by Ni-Vanuatu reggae artist Smol Fyah. The seven-track release features collaborations with local rappers Mantis and Heilly, alongside Jamaican reggae singer Conkarah, and marks a major milestone for one of Vanuatu's rising reggae voices. From Fiji, songwriter and producer Jay Tauleka steps into the spotlight with his new single Vakamatatataka.
Program: Sigidrigi to island soul
This week on Sista Sounds, new Fijian music from local sigidrigi band Vegas 6, joined by Naomi from Marama on the heartfelt new single Kauwai. The track blends traditional sigidrigi with contemporary R&B influences, showcasing a fresh take on one of Fiji's most beloved musical styles. Also on the show, beautiful traditional harmonies from the Cook Islands with music from the Tarau Sisters, Rebeca Joe and Chelsea Cuthers - celebrating the rich vocal traditions of the Kuki Airani.
Politicians embrace the status quo
What do lovers of democracy want for Pete's sake? Accountability, you bet! Adherence to moral principles versus economic shenanigans, oh yeah! And fearless pro-social legislation! The heart aches for reps who reject the status quo, but maintaining the status quo becomes the standard for politicians of both parties: Re-election as the primary goal.
Program: Aelan Riddim Festival spotlight on Sista Sounds
This week on Sista Sounds we showcase some of the talent performing at the Aelan Riddim Festival in Honiara this weekend, including local rising star Chelsie, Shazza from Vanuatu, and Naomi from Fiji. Plus the new single by the latest addition to the VT1S family, Kayzia. Produced by Jay Tauleka and Tropic Thunda, Taukena is the newest release from the Fiji-based collective, continuing a strong run of fresh music from the VT1S camp.
Program: The Drexician Icon returns
This week on Sista Sounds: The Drexician Icon, and Pacific Break 2024 finalist Oni is back with new music from Fiji on the new single Soko Yawa featuring Wilz from Vanuatu. Tiama’a, the Samoan family group led by Fafo Aulalo, release a new version of their popular hit Asoleaga with lead vocals from Dawn Aulalo Peni.
Program: Soulful harmonies from A.R.T, plus another Fijian anthem from Liz Vamarasi
This week on Sista Sounds: Aotearoa's favourite R&B trio A.R.T bring their trademark soulful harmonies on the new reggae single Make Me Believe featuring guest vocals from Māori artist Sammy Johnson. Smooth island reggae vibes with rich vocal chemistry from one of the Pacific's most loved harmony groups. The Fijian hit machine Liz Vamarasi releases another 2026 banger with the VT1S crew - Jisoko.
Program: Kali Tui brings the block party R&B vibes
This week on Sista Sounds, Kali Tui returns with the new single Galala - a warm, retro R&B groove produced by Tropic Thunda, inspired by the G-Funk era and full of block party vibes. Also this week, two regular favourites from Solomon Islands join forces as Ann Tali and MiYah link up on the new collaboration Letem Me.
Program: Vanessa Quai leads a massive week of Pacific heat across the islands
The Ni-Vanuatu queen of reggae Vanessa Quai returns with the new single 'Something About You', leading a strong week of fresh island sounds. Staying in Vanuatu, Kymvn-J3H delivers roots reggae pressure on the hustler’s anthem 'No Pain No Gain'. From Solomon Islands, Ann Tali and MiYah join forces on the island vibes tune 'Letem Me'. We’ll also check new music from Trabol Sum, Young Davie, Sean Rii, plus Yang Souljja and Amoray keeping the 677 scene active.
Program: Three Pacific favourites return with fresh new music
This week on Sista Sounds: three returning favourites with fresh new music. From Vanuatu, Vanessa Quai brings the smooth new single 'Something About You', while PNG's Taita Maraga links with Noqz on 'Idau Hanua'. Also this week, Fijian favourite Nicky Beddoes shares the second release from her moving tribute project to legendary mother Lia Osbourne, backed by the Ouvacast band. Tune in for another strong selection of women voices from across the Pacific on Sista Sounds.
Program: Mohelata returns & CHM Supersound throwbacks
Fijian singer Mohelata returns with her second release for the VT1S, Cecebuya - another strong showing from one of the new voices coming through that camp. Plus a throwback set from CHM Supersound - digging into PNG classics from Cathy Lee Chan, Rutz, Taita Maraga and Gou Gaoma. A mix of new Fiji heat and vintage PNG sounds - all on Sista Sounds.
Program: Kayzia returns with more vibes
This week on Island Music: Fijian singer Kayzia returns with her second release for the VT1S, the new single Kabasi, building on the momentum of her debut. From PNG, Jarahn links up with Australia’s DJ Noiz for Like You Do, blending Pacific R&B with polished production, while Australian-based Tongan singer Folau steps forward with fresh new music. And representing the 677, Bibao delivers another strong release, keeping that Solomon Islands wave moving with his signature style.
Program: Kayzia keeps her momentum going
Fijian singer Kayzia builds on her debut with the VT1S, returning with her second release ‘Kabasi’. Alongside her, fellow VT1S member Liz Vamarasi continues her strong run with more new music, keeping that Fiji pipeline flowing. From Vanuatu, we reach back to the early 2000s for a young Vanessa Quai, recorded when she was just 16 years old - a reminder of the depth and history behind one of the region’s most recognisable voices.
Program: Echoes across the Pacific - from Aotearoa R&B to island reinterpretations
New R&B from Jordyn with a Why, representing Whāingaroa in Aotearoa with a track from her latest EP Vibes With A Why. We play ‘Wāwau ana’ - a Māori phrase meaning echoing or resounding. Plus a country-reggae twist on ‘You Look Like You Love Me’, reimagined by Hawaiian artists Kamalani and 94Tunez, performed in their native tongue. A laid-back island take that flips a modern country hit into something breezy and rooted in Pacific sound.
Program: From reggae to metal across the Pacific
Music from across the Pacific this week, from Kiribati through to Bougainville, with a mix of reggae, contemporary island sounds and something much heavier. From Kiribati, Patricia represents her home with pride, singing for the people of Tekeraoi on the island of Abaiang. We also hear from MiYah in Solomon Islands with the new single ‘Unpredictable’ produced by Baka Solomon, alongside fresh reggae out of Papua New Guinea from Stagajah ft. Chaddy Chad.
Program: New voices from VT1S in Fiji
This week on Sista Sounds, we spotlight the female voices from the new VT1S album Ga Ni Vatu. From Fiji, Kayzia, Tulagi and Mohelata step forward as new singers joining the VT1S camp, alongside ABC Radio Australia favourites Kali Tui and Liz Vamarasi, showcasing the strong female presence across the project. We also head to Vanuatu for Groovy Banana - Wota Mama (ft. Marina Do Mar & Shiela Wills), inspired by the traditional water music of the Northern Banks Islands.
Program: New voices from Fiji on Island Music
This week on Island Music, we introduce three new singers recently added to the VT1S family from Fiji - Kayzia, Tulagi and Mohelata. All three artists make their debut on the outstanding new VT1S album Ga Ni Vatu. Alongside the new voices, the album also features Island Music favourites Kali Tui and Liz Vamarasi, adding their seasoned presence to the project.
Pacific Women Moving the Culture
This week we welcome two Sista Sounds debuts - Emma Getsi from Bougainville and Eli from Solomon Islands - bringing fresh energy and new perspectives to the show. We spin new music from Sista Sounds favourite Lonna, who exploded onto the scene at just 15 when she recorded ‘Waigho’ with Bibao in 2022. This week we play her latest single ‘Let It Show’, produced by Kazy.
Rabaul’s Tolai Rock legacy and new sounds from Solomon Islands
We’re bringing you the brand-new single Confusion from rising Solomon Islands singer Chelsie, plus the latest release Ragi from Tally Bwoy on 140 Music - the label run by Young Davie in the Solomons. We’re also diving deep into classic 80s Tolai Rock from Rabaul, featuring Painim Wok Band, Narox, and the next generation of Narox with their 2025 hits Bestie Pabeke and Arawa.
Reflections on Bob Kendall and 40-plus years with COLE | Onsite Installer
The author, Rick Howe received the Ralph Macchio Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in the industry in 2008. Who knows what COLE means or stands for? I do! I met Bob Kendall for the first time in person at the first “Pumper Show” in 1981. This is how it all started. I’ll never forget that day in 1979. I was in our Cape Cod Biochemical company “office,” which then consisted...
Rising Pacific Voices with Mesha Fretton, Ruth Orobabera & B3NNY B3N
This week on Island Music, we spotlight three powerful young voices from across the Pacific. Gadigal-based Samoan singer-songwriter Mesha Fretton returns with her heartfelt storytelling, while Kiribati’s own Nei Ruth continues her inspiring journey after first appearing on the show at just 12 years old. Plus, we hear from Ni-Vanuatu artist B3NNY B3Nwith his latest solo single Just A Feeling on Kele Productions - his second solo release, showing his steady rise and growing confidence as an artist.
Pumper | Reflections on Bob Kendall and 40-plus years with COLE
Who knows what COLE means or stands for? I do! I met Bob Kendall for the first time in person at the first “Pumper Show” in 1981. This is how it all started. I’ll never forget that day in 1979. I was in our Cape Cod Biochemical company “office,” which then consisted of a couple of desks in my partner Lew Garston’s house on Cape Cod. The phone rang, which was a big deal in those days. The call was from our CCLS dealer in Three Lakes, Wisconsin, Pete Lawonn. I remember it like it was yesterday.
Honouring Sly Dunbar, Plus New Pacific Releases on Island Music
This week on Island Music we pay tribute to the legendary Lowell ‘Sly’ Dunbar, one of the most influential drummers in the history of reggae. From roots and dub to dancehall and beyond, Sly’s timing, feel and invention helped define entire eras of Jamaican music, whether as part of the unstoppable Sly & Robbie partnership or as the driving force behind countless classic recordings.
Island Beauty - ABC Pacific
This week on Sista Sounds, we’re shining a light on leading female voices from across the Pacific, starting with Vanessa Quai and her beautiful ode to natural beauty, Island Beauty, featuring Bibao from Solomon Islands. It’s a warm, uplifting tune that leans into island pride and self-love. Flying the flag for Solomon Islands, Kayler steps up with her brand new island reggae track Come Back.
That Lewa kicks off 2026 on Sista Sounds
The first Sista Sounds show of 2026 brings new music from Ni-Vanuatu singer Lewa, now based on Kombumerri Country in the Yugambeh region of the Gold Coast, blending island roots with contemporary soul. We also head across the Tasman for something a little different from Aotearoa, where MĀ delivers a unique neo-soul sound, singing in te reo Māori over some of the freshest, future-facing beats.
Santa's helicopter flight bring noise, fossil fuel pollution
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Best of 2025 - ABC Pacific
We close out the year with a special Best of 2025 edition of Sista Sounds - a celebration of the artists, voices and songs that lit up the airwaves across the Pacific this year. With hundreds of new releases played on the program, narrowing it down to a single show was a near impossible task, but we’ve pulled together a selection that reflects just how vibrant, diverse and unstoppable the scene has been in 2025.
A.R.T bring their signature Samoan R&B-reggae blend
We’re spotlighting fresh music from Aotearoa-based Samoan trio A.R.T. Their new single We Don't We - produced by Ikoniks - lands with their trademark mix of early 2000s R&B vibes and a reggae twist. From Fiji, we’ve also got new music from singer and songwriter Oni. Her latest release Sereki Iko shows another side of her craft as she continues to carve her own lane beyond her work with VT1S.
Special guest Siprian from Solomon Islands
New Solomon Islands reggae talent Siprian joins the Island Music studios from Honiara to talk about his killer debut single Run It Up - a heavy one-drop introduction to one of the most exciting new voices coming out of the Solomons. We also pay tribute to reggae legend and Jamaican cultural icon Jimmy Cliff, who passed away this week at the age of 81.
Grace Vuata arrives - ABC Pacific
Introducing Fijian singer Grace Vuata and her debut single Sa Bera, produced by Jay Tauleka and showcasing a smooth, contemporary island-pop sound. Also featured is the highly anticipated second single from Alli-D out of Vanuatu - following up her breakout debut Vingaga last year with another confident step forward. And representing for PNG, we’ve got brand new music from Tarvin Toune, bringing his unmistakable Highlands energy to the mix.
Alli-D returns with her long-awaited second single
From Vanuatu, Alli-D steps forward with her highly anticipated second release - Tuaku, out now on Kele Productions. It’s a strong follow-up that continues her rise as one of the new artists to watch from the islands. We’re also introducing Fiji’s newest vocalist on the scene - Grace Vuata. Teaming up with Jay Tauleka, she makes her debut with Sa Bera, a collaboration that puts her voice and songwriting into the spotlight for the first time.
We're all in this together
As the story goes, Allen Ginsberg, queer New York City poet, marched with UC Berkley war protesters through Oakland toward the Bay Bridge in 1968. They were met midway by not only notoriously forceful Oakland city cops but also their sidekicks, Hells Angels, who meant to stop the protesters. Ginsberg stepped up to talk cop, protester and Hells Angels' languages. Protesters got through unbloodied. How do we nourish that kind of deep down knowledge that community tops all?
Fijian dancer Sinu makes her vocal debut
Fijian dancer and choreographer Sinu steps into the spotlight with her debut single Future Me – a soulful first release that’s already caught the attention of Mangrove Records in New Caledonia. From Hawai‘i, Tehani & Bella deliver a fresh take on modern reggae, pairing soulful harmonies with a roots foundation.
Samoan artist Renee Taleni drops a heartfelt new release from Gadigal land
Sista Sounds spins the brand new single from Renee Taleni – the Gadigal-based Samoan artist whose soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics continue to shine across the Pacific scene. Also in the mix, Shelon teams up with Boxman on a fresh new collaboration straight out of the Solomon Islands – island reggae with smooth flow and positive energy. And from Tahiti, Ariitai Eva delivers a beautiful new take on the 90s classic Toi Ma Mère – a timeless song paying tribute to mothers everywhere.
Kali Tui sings from her heart in Na Lomaqu
Setting things off in the 679, home to Pacific Break finalist Kali Tui. Her debut EP Sisi has been on heavy rotation at Radio Australia, and less than a year later she’s back with another standout release titled Na Lomaqu — meaning My Heart in Fijian. Produced by Jay Tauleka and Tropic Thunda for VT1S, the new EP blends smooth island R&B and heartfelt lyrics that showcase Kali’s growth as one of Fiji’s most exciting new voices.
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