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confi rmed him as a fi nalist at the 2010 Pacifi c Music Awards , for three categories . He has always been passionate about Niuean music and confi rms himself as an artist who writes and sings in both Niuean and English . “ It is such a nice calling to be able to share Niuean music and share songs in the Niuean language .” His latest release “ Fiti Lagakali ”, which is completely in Niuean , confi rmed him as a fi nalist for the 2016 Vodafone Pacifi c Music Awards , for the Best Song and Best Language categories . He also gave a stand out performance on the night , where he got the whole arena up on their feet dancing , performing with members of his Creative Souls Project team .
Mal has built himself a home studio within the garage , where he will write and record his own songs and also the artists from The Creative Souls Project . At the moment , Mal is writing songs for his next EP . Whilst his own music is a priority for him , things have moved slowly , because he has put his time and energy to support others and also into his work . “ I like to support and encourage others big time , 100 %. Especially young people that have a passion and desire to sing and play music . I want to create opportunities for them .”
At the time of this interview , Mal was preparing for his next overseas work trip , which sees him heading to Niue , for the Niue Ukulele Festival , with his daughter ( who Mal calls his manager ). At the Festival , Mal will take ukulele workshops , teach students how to learn and play songs , and perform a live show – which will be a great opportunity to share his knowledge , talents and music with the people of Niue .
14 fourfour . co . nz