Harry Tulagi Levy, a former engineer turned musician, has turned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic into an opportunity to pursue his passion for music fully. The 28-year-old musician founded his band, Tana Music, after losing his job at Air Terminal Services (ATS) when the pandemic struck, a situation that impacted many in the aviation and tourism sectors.
Harry’s journey into music began with a genuine interest in guitar, which evolved into leading live performances and securing contracted gigs—a significant accomplishment for any emerging artist. “1 was never really into singing; I just wanted to learn how to play the guitar, but COVID-19 happened,” he explained. This unexpected career change has allowed him not only to express his creativity but also to provide opportunities for fellow artists, contributing positively to the local music scene.
Despite his successes, Harry notes the hurdles that come with being a musician in Fiji, including the high cost of quality equipment. “It’s very hard to find good gear and if you do find it, it’s very expensive,” he shared. Nevertheless, his determination and the support of other seasoned musicians have helped him navigate these challenges.
Harry also embraces the multidimensional aspects of performance, incorporating various genres from country to rock, which allows him to connect with different audiences. He draws inspiration from his roots, having grown up in a family that enjoyed music and engaged in jam sessions. “It’s always good to start a gig with a positive, healthy, and happy attitude,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of pre-gig preparations.
As he prepares to release his first single, Harry is also working on songwriting, which he finds challenging due to the need to detach his emotions from the process. “I’m the type of person that likes to hide my emotions through humour, but when it comes to writing a song, it’s really not easy,” he admitted.
Throughout his journey, Harry maintains a steadfast commitment to authenticity in his music, believing it to be a powerful tool for healing and connection. He performs regularly at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi and thrives on bringing other musicians into the spotlight through his band.
The story of Harry Tulagi Levy showcases the resilience of emerging artists in Fiji’s music scene, highlighting how passion and hard work can lead to both personal fulfillment and community support. As local artists strive for global recognition, Harry’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the healing power of music and the importance of staying grounded in one’s aspirations.
Leave a comment