Punialava’a is back in Samoa

By Adel Fruean 25 August 2018, 12:00AM

One of Samoa’s favourite bands, Punialava’a, is in the country. They are here as guest performers for the Samoa Star Search 2018 final tonight.

Punialava’a recently won the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Vodafone Pacific Music Awards. They have returned by request of TV1 Samoa.

The band was founded by Rev. Iosefa Lale Peteru and later joined by his wife, Vini nee Sofara who became the lead singer. 

Four of Rev. Peteru and Vini’s children have carried on the family legacy by joining the band. 

Members of the band who are in Samoa include the eldest of the four children, Nanai Viellani Lale Peteru, his sister Vania Lale Peteru-Bunyali and their younger brother Leluaipouomalo Punialavaa Lale Peteru, while their youngest sister Melody and parents could not make it.

“My biggest advice for any upcoming artist is to please stop covering songs by other artists. The reason I say this is because you will only be promoting the owners of those songs but not your own work. You need to be unique and create your own original music.

“If you really want to make it in the Samoan music or mainstream, write original music and you’re never going to get better if you do not keep trying.

“Some might say they cannot write, but others might be like I do not have the expertise but how can you know how to do something if you do not try and never give up,” Nanai said.

He said his father was also rejected and turned away back in the days, but that did not stop him, he kept trying and eventually succeeded.

“Over the years star search competitors have showcased tremendous talents. I mean it is also evident in the finalists for this year.

“I am a big fan of so many local singers but hands down to the talent they have,” Vania added.

Punialava’a will put on a live performance this coming Saturday at Gym 1, Tuanaimato.

By Adel Fruean 25 August 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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