Ounine Pawoap & Tribe (New Caledonia)

A proud voice of Kanaky–New Caledonia, Ounine Pawoap is both musician and chief of the Pombei Tribe, nestled in the northern mountains of this South Pacific archipelago east of Australia. A French territory with a strong indigenous Kanak identity, New Caledonia has developed its own vibrant musical culture known as Kaneka—a fusion of traditional rhythms and reggae grooves that express the island’s deep connection to land, ancestry, and freedom. Singing in his native Cémuhi language and in French, Ounine bridges ancient traditions with modern reggae energy. After rising to fame with the group A7JK and their 2014 classic Diapason, he joined forces with Marcus Gad & Tribe and producer Tamal to record his 2024 album Yêby Yêby between France and his homeland.

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The title track means “Stand up, my country!” and is both a prayer and a rallying cry for unity. “In these troubled times for our country and our people,” Ounine explains, “may music help us value what unites us. Though others may judge us, let us be proud of who we are.” Driven by traditional bamboo and bark percussion, soulful horns, and Ounine’s commanding voice, “Yêby Yêby” celebrates resilience, pride, & the quiet strength of a people rooted in the earth.

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