Nominated for the first time in the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023, Allan Aufamau well known by his stage name “Sprigga Mek” was surprised to find out he was one of the nominees. He was nominated for his album ‘Kanaka Messenjah’ and said that the nomination came as a surprise to him. “To be honest it came as a surprise, I don’t usually get nominated for these things. It’s a great honor and privilege to be acknowledged after all these years. It’s for the culture.” “I’m looking forward to the night. I’ll be performing so I’ll make sure to put on a good show on the night.” He said that he released his album Kanaka Messenjah in November 2023 and stated that it was a conscious album to help remind people of their identity and who we are in this day and age. The album was released in November 2023. “Despite the evolving world, it doesn’t mean you lose yourself and your identity. Be true to who you are, maintaining our customs and traditions as well and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.” The songs on the album include ‘400 Naka’, ‘Sweet Thing’, ‘Koros blo Tupla’ with Mereani Masani and ‘Vanua Ralemana’ in which he raps in Aroma language. Additionally, Sprigga was happy to see that the seeds they planted 20 years ago was finally bearing fruit in terms of new and upcoming hip-hop rappers in PNG. “And you know we have kids like Desiz, G Smooth and his whole crew. We’re really proud of the young boys who have come but it’s only going to get better. People are starting to accept that Hip-Hop is gonna be a part of PNG music now.” “I know the ones coming up will be inspired by Desiz so we’re going to have some good MC’s, conscience verbal artists in the future.” “We’re blown away by the talent, we’re just like a bunch of proud fathers hearing their songs. It’s a humbling experience to see our labor come to fruition.” Furthermore, he encouraged the younger generation of the nation to work hard for something they were passionate about. “If you’re really passionate about something, you eat and sleep it. You have to put your heart and soul into it and make sure you don’t lose yourself along the way. Focus, be good to people that you meet along the way, create good vibes and just be original. “ “Create your own unique sound and stand out from the crowd. Why follow the crowd when the crowd can follow you?” Meanwhile, competing with Sprigga for the Male Artist Award of the Year is youngster Tonton Malele and local singing sensation Saii Kay, while his Kanaka Messenjah album competes in the Best Album category with the Maimai Inc. Volume 1, Unlove Volume 3, and EP and 4Blordz & Dan Blantz’ album, Panu EP album. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 is set for Saturday, June 1st at the Lamana Gold Club Arena and it is the only awards ceremony in PNG that recognizes local artists for their work in growing the PNG music industry.