Brotherhood Musiq: From school friends to award-nominated gospel sensations

From what started as a high school band, Brotherhood Musiq has evolved into award-nominated artists, reaching millions with their heartfelt gospel sound.

The group's journey began in high school, where AJ Pualau and Junior Tuiloma first started singing together.

“We started off in school, ended up jamming at a last-minute wedding and managed to get gigs at Andy's Burger and Bar, that was our first gig and started playing in church and still going,” AJ says.

Shortly after, Harry Pualau, AJ's brother, joined, completing the trio known as Brotherhood Musiq.

Their recognition escalated as videos of their performances and gospel covers gained millions of views across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

The group was taken aback when their first video reached one million views.

“We didn't expect it. When we release our music, we're happy and we know that it's going to bless someone out there,” AJ says.

Despite their musical success, the members of Brotherhood Musiq maintain full-time jobs, balancing family responsibilities, church commitments, and weekend performances.

Tuiloma highlights the importance of spiritual balance. "We'll never miss church, that always comes first for us.

The group performing at Long Bay Surf Club. Photo/Brotherhood Musiq Facebook

“It's essential in our group to make sure that we're spiritually fed and our souls are catered to first before we go out and do anything music-wise.”

One of their most memorable performances was at Christmas in the Park.

“That was the first time we ever started wearing in-ears and having proper audio and I think performing in front of thousands of people, the whole event was surreal,” Harry says. “That was something big for us.”

Receiving the news of their nomination was profound.

“We didn't know what genre we were going to get, but to be recognised for the gospel artist, man, there's some weight to that,” Tuiloma says.

They are finalists in the ‘Best Pacific Gospel Artist’ category sponsored by PMN’s 531pi.

Listen to the group's full interview on Pacific Mornings

This year’s awards featured a record 34 finalists across 13 categories. Among the 15 first-time nominees is Brotherhood Musiq, alongside established artists like Shane Walker and Aaradhna, who lead the pack with four nominations.

On the state of Pacific music in New Zealand, Harry believes the community is finally receiving the recognition it deserves.

“It's bringing out a lot of young talent, especially in the Polynesian community, to strive for an award.”

Over the years, the group has come to realise that authenticity is its greatest asset.

“Just stay true to who you are as an artist,” Tuiloma says. “Don't pull away from it and a lot of people will come and say things about the way you write or how you produce music and things like that, but just stay hard, stay true to what you love and what you know."