Vanuatu rapper Mantis has claimed victory in the 2025 Pacific Break competition with his acclaimed track “Weatherman,” surpassing hundreds of entries from 18 Pacific nations. The artist, whose real name is unknown, captivated the judges with his dynamic flow, sharp lyricism, and compelling storytelling. Delivering his verses in Bislama, French, and English, Mantis draws inspiration from influential figures like Kendrick Lamar while channeling classic U.S. West Coast beats.
“Weatherman,” a track produced by Vanboii and Wilz, addresses pressing climate issues faced by Pacific Islanders, with Mantis adopting the persona of “the Weatherman” to shine a light on these realities. “I knew that this song was special, and I see why now,” he expressed, echoing a sentiment of hope and passion for his art despite challenges.
Mantis’ journey in music began in 2014 with the rap group Confliction. After the release of his debut album, “Personal Therapy,” while studying in New Zealand, he returned to Vanuatu in 2022 and co-founded Kele Productions with fellow members. His recent win marks a significant milestone as only the second ni-Vanuatu artist to take home the title since reggae group 26 Roots won the inaugural competition in 2008.
Mantis looks forward to his future endeavors in the music industry, stating, “For hip-hop and rap artists from Vanuatu, I hope this will be a stepping stone in developing our music scene here and the industry.” As part of his prize, he will perform at WOMADelaide in March 2026, further extending his reach within the international music arena.
This victory not only uplifts Mantis but also represents a promising horizon for the Vanuatu music scene, showcasing resilience and artistic expression. The growing recognition of Pacific artists contributes to a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape, fostering unity and celebrating the unique voices of the region.
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