Jason Momoa, renowned for his dynamic roles in films like “Aquaman” and “Dune: Part One,” is exploring new artistic territory with his band, ÖOF TATATÁ. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Momoa shared his recent experiences of performing live, a venture that brings him both fear and exhilaration.
At 45, Momoa is embracing the challenges of live performances, which he finds distinctly different from the film sets he’s accustomed to. “It gives me an opportunity to have two hours to really be scared,” he said, highlighting the raw and unfiltered nature of live music. Momoa, who has no prior theater or stage experience, enjoys the immediacy and vulnerability of being in front of a live audience, whether it’s a crowd of 400 or 1,000.
Momoa plays bass in ÖOF TATATÁ, a name that translates from Māori to “Oof, Almost.” The band also includes his longtime friends Mike Hayes on guitar and vocals, and Kenny Dale on drums. Momoa credits Hayes and Dale, both seasoned musicians, with teaching him to play guitar and drums. He motivated them to continue their musical journey together after they considered stepping back from music due to family commitments.
The contrast between acting and live performances is stark for Momoa. “Being with a live audience, it’s not my background,” he explained, noting the refreshing and rejuvenating energy he receives from live crowds, unlike the delayed gratification of movie acting where the final product is not seen for years.
This new venture provides Momoa with “instant gratification” and a connection with the audience that’s immediate and energizing, offering a thrilling counterpoint to his film career. As he continues to develop his musical skills and perform live, Momoa is finding joy and fulfillment in the shared live experiences with his bandmates and fans.
