Pacific artists singing their way to the top have been recognised at the 17th annual Pacific Music Awards.
Despite it being an online event, it was still a hit, with families tuning in to watch the pre-recorded ceremony and performances.
The awards provided a showcase of the best in Pacific music in Aotearoa, with an incredible line up.
Soul funk singer Lou'ana took out two awards along with her seven-piece band, winning Best Pacific Female Artist and Best Producer with Nathan Judd for her debut album, Midnight Madness.
Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
"I couldn't believe it. I was so stoked. It was really, really emotional for me because it has been such a long journey. I feel honoured. We have so much talent in the pacific," she said.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the awards ceremony was pre-recorded and screened online.
Event producer Petrina Togi-Sa'ena said for a while it was touch and go and she was relieved it could take place.
"We have had a challenging time...we had to postpone the ceremony a few times but we were always committed to the awards taking place, and to producing the event in the best and safest way possible."
Best Pacific Soul/R&B Artist Award went to Lepani for his EP 'In the Moment' which he performed on the night.
"It was a shock and to even be a part of it was a surprise. It was a weird experience not having an audience and just performing for the cameras. But the best past was performing with the guys. I missed performing with them," he said.
Lepani Photo: supplied
Nineteen-year-old Jawsh 685, became a household name when his song with Jason Derulo went viral last year.
The South Auckland teen took home three gongs - the APRA Best Pacific Song, NZ On Air Radio Airplay Award, and the NZ On Air Streaming award.
Jawsh 685 at RNZ Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
Meanwhile, best Hip hop star Melodownz won big as well.
"I wasn't expecting to get Best Male artist and the same goes for the hip hop award as well. It's a true honour," he said.
The Polynesian artist with Samoan, Maori and European roots spoke about growing up half cast and struggling to find acceptance by other Samaons.
Bronson Price AKA Melodownz Photo: supplied
"Even though I can't speak Samaon or Māori, I could walk into a room now full of Samoans and I wouldn't be ashamed because I don't know the language. My ancestors are of this culture and still got the still amount of power in my blood. I feel like other people are coming out and being proud as well, which is very important especially due to Tally Poppy syndrome and colonisation."
For more information here's a full list of winners and finalists:
