In the heart of Papua New Guinea’s musical history, few names resonate as deeply as Barike, the iconic band that captured the nation’s soul through melody, rhythm, and a message of unity. At the centre of this legendary group stands Matalau Nakikus, a man whose life journey reflects not only the evolution of PNG’s music scene but also the changing tides of a young, independent nation.
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| Matalau Nakikus |
A Childhood Rooted in Music and Faith
Born into a family where music was a way of life, Nakikus’ earliest memories are of his father playing the piano and leading the church choir.
“Music was very much a part of my upbringing,” he recalls.
“Our life revolved around the church, and so did music.”
By the time he reached high school, Nakikus had already found his way into bands, playing with teachers and schoolmates. One of his earliest bands, Pacific Vibration, was just the beginning of what would become a lifelong passion. Despite his growing love for music, education remained a priority. After completing Grade 10, he pursued drama and arts at the National Arts School in Port Moresby before receiving a scholarship to study at the prestigious National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in Sydney, Australia, where he shared a classroom with Hollywood actor Mel Gibson.
The Birth of Barike
Upon returning home, Nakikus took up teaching but never abandoned his love for music. It was in 1981, while working at Kerevat National High School, that John Wong, a fellow musician, approached him with an idea—forming a new band. Alongside Glenn Low and a few other talented musicians, Barike was born. The name itself, derived from a Rabaul slang term, became synonymous with music that spoke to the heart of Papua New Guinea’s people.
From the outset, Barike distinguished itself by fusing contemporary music with traditional Tolai influences. Their songs, often inspired by string bands and local folk melodies, resonated deeply with audiences, particularly children and families. The hit song Iau Ra Biavi was a turning point, launching the band into national stardom. Soon after, Ringa Maue from West New Britain solidified their reputation as a band that could unite people through music.
Music as a Unifying Force
The 1980s was a defining decade for Papua New Guinea, a time of national growth but also increasing social and political challenges. The Bougainville crisis, in particular, threatened to fracture the unity of the newly independent nation. It was during this period that Barike recorded Wan Kantri (One Country), a song that would become an anthem for national unity.
“We wanted a song that could remind Papua New Guineans that we are one people, one nation,” Nakikus explains.
“We didn’t want it to be political; we wanted it to be a song of hope and togetherness.”
The song struck a chord with the people. It topped the country’s music charts for over a year and was played across radio stations and at national events. Politicians may have struggled to unify the country, but Barike’s music succeeded in doing what words alone could not. Wan Kantri (One Country) became more than just a song—it became a national treasure, a musical reminder of the country's shared history and common destiny. Its melody and lyrics instilled a sense of belonging and pride, and it remains one of Papua New Guinea’s most powerful musical contributions to national identity.
The Eruption That Changed Everything
In 1994, disaster struck Rabaul. The twin volcanic eruptions devastated the town, displacing families and shattering lives. On the morning they were due to return home from a performance in Goroka, the band received news of the eruption.
“We couldn’t go back. Our homes were buried in ash,” Nakikus recalls. He lost everything—including a new car he had purchased just two weeks prior.
Barike responded the only way they knew how—through music. They held fundraising concerts in Port Moresby to support affected families. Out of this tragedy came another defining song, Rabaul Town, an emotional tribute to the town they once knew and loved.
“The loss of Rabaul was more than just losing homes and property; it was losing a way of life,” Nakikus reflects.
“Rabaul was once the Pearl of the Pacific, a vibrant town where music flourished, people thrived, and culture was celebrated. The eruption changed everything, but the spirit of Rabaul lives on in its people and in the songs we continue to sing.”
The destruction of Rabaul was a devastating blow to Barike and the entire community. Many were forced to relocate, and the music scene that had once made the town legendary slowly faded. Yet, the memories and the music endure, carried by those who refuse to let the past be forgotten.
PNG at 50: A Milestone of Reflection and Growth
As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence, the nation finds itself at a crossroads—reflecting on its achievements, challenges, and the vision for its future. Music, culture, and unity have been fundamental in shaping the country's identity, and few songs have encapsulated this journey better than Wan Kantri (One Country).
“This anniversary is a time for us to reflect on how far we’ve come,” Nakikus shares.
“We have faced difficulties, from political upheavals to economic struggles, but music has always been a unifying force. It has carried our stories, our pain, and our triumphs.”
Barike’s music, deeply rooted in national pride, continues to serve as a reminder of the bonds that hold PNG together. As the nation marks this historic milestone, Nakikus urges younger generations to remember the significance of their cultural heritage.
“We must not lose sight of who we are as Papua New Guineans. Our music, our language, and our traditions are what make us unique. As we move forward, we should embrace modern influences but never forget our roots.”
Carrying the Legacy Forward
In recent years, Nakikus has faced significant health challenges. He has been battling chronic kidney disease, requiring regular dialysis treatment. Despite these struggles, his passion for music and his love for his country remain unwavering. He has spoken out about the need for better healthcare access in Papua New Guinea, particularly for those suffering from chronic illnesses.
“I have to get treatment three days a week,” Nakikus shares.
“It’s expensive, and many of us struggle to afford it. I am lucky to have my family’s support, but many others are not as fortunate.”
Even as he faces these difficulties, Nakikus remains deeply engaged in music. “Music has always been my way of expressing myself, and even now, it keeps me strong. I want to use whatever time I have left to continue inspiring and helping others.”
Though Barike’s prominence waned over the years, their legacy endures. Today, Nakikus’ son, Nathan Nakikus, and nephew, Anslom Nakikus, continue to keep the Barike sound alive, blending tradition with contemporary influences.
Nakikus himself, despite battling health challenges, remains passionate about using music to inspire and heal.
“Music is the one thing that can still bring Papua New Guineans together,” he says.
“We want to continue Barike’s mission, not just as a band, but as a movement to support communities, health initiatives, and most importantly, to remind us of who we are as a nation.”
As Papua New Guinea marks 50 years of independence, Nakikus dedicates Wan Kantri (One Country) to the people. “That song still means everything to me. We are diverse, but we are one. And I hope we never forget that.”
Matalau Nakikus and Barike may have started as just a band, but they became something much greater—a voice for unity, a beacon of cultural pride, and a symbol of hope for Papua New Guinea’s future.
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