Many islands · Many voices
What does Vanuatu music sound like?
No single genre defines music from Vanuatu. Across the archipelago, communities maintain distinct languages, ceremonies and performance traditions. Contemporary musicians also draw from string-band music, reggae, gospel, acoustic island music, pop and studio production from Vanuatu and the wider Pacific.
KastomCeremony, dance and community
Voice, movement, rhythm and locally made instruments remain connected to community knowledge and important occasions.
String bandGuitars, ukulele and harmony
String bands shaped a recognisable island sound through acoustic rhythm, group singing and songs rooted in local life.
Church and gospelStrong communal voices
Choirs, worship groups and gospel artists are central parts of Vanuatu’s musical landscape.
ContemporaryReggae, pop and new production
Artists combine Ni-Vanuatu identity and language with reggae, dance music, electronic tools and modern recording.
Continuity and change
A short story of Vanuatu music
Music in Vanuatu long predates recorded media. It lives through performance and transmission between generations. Introduced instruments, churches, radio, cassettes, studios, mobile phones and online platforms each created new ways to make and share music without replacing older community practices.
Community rootsLocal songs, rhythms, dances and instruments carry histories and identities specific to islands and communities.
String-band eraGuitars and ukuleles became part of an influential popular style heard at gatherings and across island communities.
Recorded musicRadio, tapes and local studios helped bands and solo artists reach audiences beyond live performances.
Digital generationPhones, video platforms, streaming and local apps now connect Vanuatu artists with listeners at home and overseas.
Current scene
Vanuatu music today
Today’s scene includes established bands, independent singers, producers, church groups, string bands and young artists recording from Port Vila, Luganville and island communities. Songs move through radio, social video, community events, Bluetooth sharing and music platforms.
Language remains one of its strengths. Artists sing in Bislama, English, French and many Indigenous languages, giving local releases a sound and point of view unavailable anywhere else.
Vanuatu Music publishes original release stories, artist news, videos and locally available albums. Coverage grows as artists share verified information and new work.
