Get ready for a night of cultural immersion and musical brilliance as Pamyua (pronounced bum-yo-ah), Alaska’s premier Inuit musical group, takes the stage at the Glenn Massey Theater on Thursday, March 14. They will follow the Indigenous Fashion Show as part of the Arctic Winter Games 2024 festivities.
Pamyua is known for their dynamic fusion of traditional Inuit drum and dance melodies with contemporary R&B vocals. Described as "Inuit Soul Music," it serves as a powerful expression of Indigenous identity and pride, transcending geographical boundaries to resonate with audiences worldwide. Pamyua honors Indigenous traditions, history, and storytelling through their performances.
Formed in 1995 by brothers Phillip and Stephen Blanchett, Pamyua quickly rose to fame, captivating audiences with their unique sound. With the addition of Ossie Kairaiuak and Karina Moeller, the quartet has evolved into a cultural phenomenon.
Phillip Blanchett's inspiration came from his mother's traditional Yup’ik dance performance. He was determined to create a group that would capture the spirit of the Yup’ik word "Pamyua," meaning "Encore" or "Do it Again."
Today, Pamyua’s influence extends beyond the stage. They’ve scored music for the National Geographic reality show Life Below Zero: First Alaskans, composed original pieces for Flying Wild Alaska on the Discovery Channel, and even contributed to the theme song of the PBS Kids show Molly of Denali. Through these projects, they continue to amplify Indigenous voices and narratives on a global scale.
As Pamyua prepares to take stage at the Arctic Winter Games, audiences can expect an unforgettable experience of energy, emotion, and cultural celebration. It’s more than just a concert—it's a journey into the heart and soul of Inuit culture, brought to life through the universal language of music and dance.