Is AI putting Pacific string bands at risk? episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 27, 2025 · 29 MIN

Is AI putting Pacific string bands at risk?

from Culture Compass · host Australian Broadcasting Corporation

What began when WWII soldiers brought guitars to our shores has grown into the defining strums of island string bands.  Now, that sound is under pressure. Electronic music is rising. AI technology is trying to replicate it. Is this how string music is naturally evolving, or do we need to get back to our roots?  You'll hear from Sir George Telek, the legendary voice who saw Papua New Guinea's string band skills recognised on the world stage, as well veteran Solomon Islands broadcaster Ashley Wickham, who shares how a shared sound unites such a linguistically diverse nation. And in Vanuatu, musician Sam Firi continues his father's legacy, using string band music to hold a community together.Culture Compass was produced by Deadset Studios for ABC Radio Australia.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Oct 27, 2025

Embed this episode

NOW PLAYING

Is AI putting Pacific string bands at risk?

0:00 29:51

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Culture Compass?

This episode is 29 minutes long.

When was this Culture Compass episode published?

This episode was published on October 27, 2025.

Can I download this Culture Compass episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!