Mereani Masani is enjoying a solid singing career so far.
In just a matter of a few but fast years Masani’s star went stratospheric thanks to her explosive performances on Papua New Guinea’s cult version of Idol, where she gained recognition as a songstress with great vocal ability and a natural entertainer.
She cut three new singles collaborating with award winning DJ and producer Akay 47, and now she’s ready to take it on the road performing at various events around the country and at the Vodafone Hibiscus Festival this week.
Right now, the multi-talented artist is one of Papua New Guinea’s hottest young creative talents. And all her energies are focused on music. Mereani’s sultry, entertaining vocal gifts reflect who she is, and where she’s from.
“I’ve worked extremely hard to get to where I am and it is very much a work in progress,” Ms Masani said.
“The journey has been much more personal, challenging and triumphant because of the struggles I’ve faced as a person and as a musician.
“I sing with passion stemming from childhood experiences, relationships, love, children and life.”
Born on July 22, 1988, in Mount Hagen, PNG to a Papua New Guinean father and a Fijian mother, Mereani considers herself a “chip off the old block” with musical talent in her family vein.
She is the granddaughter of well-known Fijian guitarist, the late Apakuki Mate.
She believes talent definitely runs through her blood with strong singing influences from her mother, grandfather and brother among other talented family members.
She also listed Alicia Keys, Michael Jackson, Amy Winehouse and Beyonce as strong musical influences.
As well as singing full-time, Mereani works closely with NGOs and UNICEF as an advocate fighting against violence against women and children.
She aims to release her first album in the near future and continue inspiring people through her music.
“I’ve always tried to sing as honestly as I’ve felt.
“I strongly believe in the quote “Where words fail, music speaks” and it is always my mantra whether I sing with my children at home, my siblings in the living room or in a more professional setting — on stage.
“Music is my passion, music is my life.”
At the time of this writing, Mereani was in Lae, PNG performing the national anthem for a political convention.
* Savuto Vakadewavosa is a local artist and staff member of the Hibiscus Event Group.
