Songs to Listen to Before You Go to Polynesia

Polynesia is a cultural area in the Pacific Ocean comprised of a number of different countries and islands. It stretches from Hawaii to New Zealand and includes French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, Tonga and more. As such, there are a whole bunch of great songs to get you in the island mood; be sure to also check out the hulas and the island drumming that will put fire in your veins. Here are five that are sure to get you thinking about your island paradise.

“How Bizarre” by OMC

Remember this song from the mid-90s? It reached number one on U.S. Billboard charts which made OMC the first band from New Zealand to top the U.S. charts. It is still the biggest selling record for an act from New Zealand.

“Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash

If you’re sailing in the Pacific, this is your song. The escapist song follows the singer as he sails the Coconut Milk Run across the Pacific from California to the Marquesas to Tahiti and beyond. Also check out Jimmy Buffett’s “One Particular Harbour” (https://open.spotify.com/track/44UqG68nsYIsJGQQXybDN8) about his longing for the islands and, in particular, Cook’s Bay in Moorea.

“Pate Pate” by Te Vaka

Te Vaka is an award-winning group of musicians from across Polynesia that makes South Pacific Fusion.

“Muskia Malie” by Pacific Soul

Pacific Soul is a female group from Samoa. The harmonies in this song will make you long for grass skirts and crystal waters.

“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

You know this song. You know the bittersweet story of the enormous Hawaiian with the sweet voice. Let it take you away to somewhere over the rainbow one more time.