Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — American Samoan singer-songwriter from Carson, California and the new Hip-Hop rage from Apia will perform at a free concert tonight at the DYWA gymnasium

Tenelle Luafalemana will be performing with Ventry Parker, whose stage name is Poetik 685.

They performed in Apia this past week. Parker, who is New Zealand born and raised in Apia, has independently released street albums —  The Ambassador; For the Ville and Poetikly Done.

Parker is known for his outspoken opinions on racism, Polynesian culture, and for putting Samoan Hip Hop on the map. In 2020, Parker was nominated three times as best Pacific Hip Hop Artist; Best Pacific Hip Hop Album and he was the winner of Best Pacific Male Artist.

Tenelle on the other hand made it to the ‘big time’ on NBC’s American Song Contest with her rendition of the country rock hit “Full Circle”. She told Voyage LA that she started singing when she was 12 years old.

 “Music is my way of expressing myself. I started singing when I was 12 years old and found my voice by the age of 21.

 “Like many, I’ve been through certain things in life that would probably drive some folks insane.

 “Long story short — music saved my life and plays an immense role on who I’ve become today. Some people find their purpose early in life, while others face difficulties finding their true calling.”

Tenelle in May, made it to the finals of NBC's 'American Song Contest' representing the American Samoa.

The talented musician sang ‘Full Circle’ and took everyone by storm with her singing prowess.

 “I’ve had the honor of building a fan-base across Hawaii, New Zealand and throughout the Reggae/ Polynesian communities around the world.

 “I am extremely grateful for a family that loves me and friends’ that always have my best interest at heart. One thing that sets me apart from the masses is my urgency to serve others. If I’m able to help, I always will.”

 She said during her time as a background singer for about seven years, her dad got to the point where he said, “I’m only coming to your shows if your name is on the ticket.”

“That Summer of 2016, I had my first show in front of 30,000 people with my face and logo on the flyer.

 “The greatest feeling was having every single person in that crowd singing along to my songs and seeing my Dad in the midst of that huge crowd with his hands in the air and tears in his eyes.

 “The proudest moments in my life are when my gifts or talents are utilized to bring happiness to others.

“Music changes lives and I am so excited for where God has yet to take me,” Tenelle said.