THE stage is set for the highly anticipated Papa Graun Music Festival, which kicked off today, Saturday (September 14, 2024), at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby.
The event promises to be a monumental gathering of Papua New Guinea’s finest musical talents, both legendary and emerging, all coming together to celebrate the nation’s rich and diverse musical heritage.
Leading the lineup is the much-anticipated performance by the Naked Kuala, whose electrifying presence will be accompanied by a star-studded array of local icons including SpriggaMek, O-Four, Leramz of Kagua, Kronos, Tarvin Toune, Robert Oeka, Daddiigii, StagaJah, Jessy Joe as well as others. Joining them will be up-and-coming artists such as Irau Joe and others who are making waves in the PNG music scene.
This year’s festival marks the third installment of the Papa Graun Music Festival, a movement that first began in 2021, following the worldwide impact of COVID-19. Volume One of the festivals in 2021 set the stage for a revival of live music, with the second installment in 2022 at the National Football Stadium. Now, in 2024, the festival is returning stronger than ever, with a mission to unite people from all walks of life—young and old, from every corner of PNG—through the universal language of music.
According to Papa Graun founder Juda Memafu: “Papa Graun is more than just a music festival,” said organizers at a recent press conference.
“It’s about bringing everyone together, celebrating our shared musical culture, and showcasing the incredible talent that Papua New Guinea has to offer. This is the first time in our country’s history that something of this scale has happened, with such a diverse lineup of artists.”
“What makes the Papa Graun Music Festival unique is its message of empowerment and positivity. The festival’s organizers emphasize that success doesn’t come from wealth, connections, or privilege. Rather, it’s about hard work, determination, and having a dream.
“Music has the power to bring people together and speak with one voice. We believe that no matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can achieve your dreams if you work for it.”
The band leader of Naked Kuala, Kyrre Waag, shared his excitement about being part of the festival, emphasizing the significance of international collaboration.
“I think this is a great opportunity,” Waag said. “We are just a small part of a big movement, and I’m incredibly fortunate to be able to come to PNG and even bring my mom from Norway. To be allowed to take part in building something and helping out is amazing.”
