Charles Maimarosia is a unique and extraordinary Solomon Islands singer and musician, raised in the remote Pipisu village of Malaita. He is renowned for being a singer of important custom knowledge, drawing equally on traditional and contemporary musical styles. Sharing the Are’ Are ancestral cultural oral wisdom stories handed down from generation to generation.
Charles developed a profound interest in ‘Are’Are music at a young age after inheriting his first hand made coconut shell ukulele from his father.
He later began performing amongst the community, communicating ancient songs of his ancestors with hand-made pan pipes.
In 2020 Charles released the single A’mamiuru to raise funds for the community in Solomon Islands after a ferry disaster caused by Tropical Cyclone Harold.
He has performed in Taiwan, through Europe and North America in 2022 Charles received the MAV Diaspora Award at the Music Victoria Ceremony and in January 2023 performed in Honiara as part of the Australian High Commission / Wantok Musik Concerts.
In 2024 Charles performed at Cygnet Folk Festival, WOMAD and National Folk Festival.
Charles is releasing and touring his new album Hote’ Hote’ in 2025 and recently shared his first single off the album, also titled Hote’ Hote’.
And Charles has some shows coming up across VIC, NSW and ACT over the coming months:
SAT 8 FEB | ODESSA AT LEAVER’S HOTEL, CRESWICK VIC
Tickets available from https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch
SAT 15 FEB | GEORGE LANE, ST KILDA VIC with special guest Pirritu
Tickets available from https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1301782
FRI 21 FEB | WAUCHOPE ARTS HALL, WAUCHOPE NSW
Tickets available from in January 2025 from: https://wauchopearts.org.au/
SAT 22 FEB | RED RATTLER, MARRICKVILLE NSW with special guest Zippy Anu
Tickets available from https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch-with-special-guests
SUN 23 FEB | SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE, CANBERRA ACT with special guests Dean Abbott Band
Tickets available from https://www.smithsalternative.com/events/charles-maimarosia-88669
Here are ten different things I as a musician might dream of in a green room before or after a show:
1. A personal chef – Offering a custom menu based on my preferences, including fresh, nourishing meals and snacks to keep my energy high as well as a small shot of straight honey whiskey to warm up my vocal chords and a top-of-the-line coffee machine – For me and those who need a strong espresso or special brew to jumpstart our energy levels.
2. A “dream team” playlist – Curated tracks from my favourite pre-show hype-up or calming music, tailored to set the right mood.
3. A high-quality sound system to listen to the setlist – So I can vibe with the music and make sure everything’s in tune before hitting the stage.
4. A massage therapist or physical therapist – For muscle relaxation and stress relief, ensuring my body, mind and soul is in top shape before the performance.
5. A personal instrument technician or roadie – To ensure my instruments are in perfect condition, tuned, and ready for performance.
6. Personalised skincare and grooming products – To ensure I feel fresh and look my best before hitting the stage.
7. A trusted vocal coach: For some last-minute vocal exercises to ensure I am in perfect form.
8. A small, quiet space for meditation or mindfulness – Equipped with cushions, candles, or aromatherapy to create a peaceful environment for relaxation before I hit the stage. With luxurious, comfortable bed or lounge area – For a quick nap or to relax before the performance, ensuring I am well-rested and energised.
9. A display of fan art or gifts from supporters – To feel connected to my audience and get an extra boost of motivation before going on stage.
10. A few of my close friends or collaborators – To provide moral support, chat, or simply share a moment of calm before the performance.