WHAT a night it was on Saturday evening as DC Park, Henderson, east of Honiara came alive as Jamaican dancehall legend Busy Signal delivered a high-energy performance to hundreds of die-hard fans.
The free for all event marked a historic moment for the country, blending international music with national pride in the Independence wind-down show.
The concert was organized by the Solution International Group (SIG) and the Kadere Party Solomon Islands, with co-sponsorship from Cowboys Grill, Red Eye INC, and Full Range Security.
It was entirely free, without any commercial activity or ticketing, reflecting a commitment to community celebration over profit.
“This is more than a concert; it is a celebration of culture, community, and opportunity,” said Jean Lesley Benoit, Deputy Director of SI Group. “We are proud to say this is completely free—just gratitude.”
Busy Signal performed with his full live band, rather than using a backing track. His set included hits like “One More Night,” “Lady in Red,” “Step Out,” and “Sweet Love,” captivating the crowd from start to finish.
Cheers echoed across DC Park as fans danced beneath the glowing lights and reggae rhythms.
Local artists also hit the stage to support Busy Signal. They included Daddy Toon, Buad, FIYAH, Ollman Koo from Flame Boy International, Rosie Delmah, up-and-coming artist Ksie, Trouble Sum, Jahboy, Hoprod, StoneyB, DMP, and Jques, as well as Sandro Martelly from Haiti.
DJs Naz, Tua (also known as Tua Valenti), and Chill energized the crowd with their incredible vibes.
The LEGO Squad showcased high-energy choreography, further demonstrating the creative spirit of the Solomon Islands.
The festival was born from a shared vision among SIG, the Kadere Party, Cowboys Grill, and local stakeholders to promote music tourism and position the Solomon Islands as a destination for global entertainment.
Meanwhile, a local music lover said, one of the key messages he took away from the sponsors of the Independence Festival featuring Busy Signal was “promoting music tourism” in the Solomon Islands.
He also impressed the Incredible talent of the local musicians, who confidently performed alongside top Jamaican artists and musicians whose influence has shaped our country’s music culture for decades.
He suggested that it’s time for the government through the Ministry of Education to consider introducing music as a compulsory subject in all schools, or at least ensuring music classes are available.
“Because for some, music might be their true calling, especially if they struggle within the conventional education system.
Supporting music education could provide future generations with real opportunities, both creatively and economically.
Let’s give our youth the tools to dream, and the skills to succeed, he concluded.
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
