Pamyua

PAMYUA (pronounced bum-yo-ah) is a Yup’ik Inuit word meaning ENCORE or DO IT AGAIN!
Pamyua was formed in April 1995 by brothers Phillip and Stephen Blanchett. The brothers stumbled upon a musical concept to blend Inuit drum/dance melodies with R&B vocal styling and arrangements. The duo immediately began sharing their performance around Alaska and collaborating with like-minded artists.

Later that year Ossie Kairaiuak permanently joined the group and in the spring of 1996 Karina Moeller permanently joined. Today the quartet works with world-class musicians from Alaska and Denmark and travels the world sharing their blend of cultural harmony.

Pamyua showcases Inuit culture through music and dance performance. The show is a platform to share indigenous knowledge and history. Their style derives from traditional melodies reinterpreted with contemporary vocalization and instrumentation. Often described as “Inuit Soul Music,” Pamyua has discovered their own genre. Band members are proud to represent Indigenous culture.

The group believes unity is possible through music and dance. Together, each member works to interpret Inuit traditions masterfully with joy and sincerity. The response to this message is tremendous as the group is a symbol of pride for Alaska’s indigenous peopl