Grace Vuata is emerging as a significant figure in Fiji’s contemporary music landscape, deftly balancing her recording career with university studies and a full-time job while inspiring young artists to stay dedicated and focused on their craft.
In an interview with The Sunday Times, the 23-year-old artist shared that her passion for music ignited shortly after leaving Adi Cakobau School, largely influenced by her manager, Paris Nasaroa, who is also a board member of the Fiji Performing Rights Association. “I’ve been part of the music industry since 2021,” she noted, emphasizing how her transition to professional recording was expedited by her management team.
Grace’s musical inspiration comes from a blend of international stars like Mariah Carey and Celine Dion, but she credits her father, a church minister and choir master, as her most profound influence. “Seeing him push through music inspired me that music is something else. It’s not just a hobby; it’s a God-given thing,” she explained, showcasing the deep connection between her family and her artistry.
Fans can look forward to new releases from Grace, as she is currently working on new songs and music videos following her recent track, “Sa Bera.” While specific release dates remain to be finalized, she revealed that her new material will predominantly touch on romantic themes while exploring more youthful contemporary sounds. “Mostly romantic love, but I’m working towards more youthful music as well,” she stated.
Outside of her musical endeavors, Grace is pursuing a degree in journalism and psychology at the University of the South Pacific. The balance of online classes, her job, and music projects requires significant discipline, but it is contributing to her personal and professional growth. “Every new day, make sure you don’t repeat what you did the day before,” she advises, emphasizing the importance of constant self-improvement.
Her interest in journalism stems from a desire to tell stories and amplify the voices of those who are often unheard. “I like storytelling. I always wanted to engage myself in telling the stories of people that are unable to have a voice to do so,” she expressed.
In the context of the ongoing debate about artificial intelligence in music production, Vuata offered her perspective, acknowledging both opportunities and challenges that come with the technology. While AI can assist aspiring creators, she expressed concern that it might dilute the emotional richness derived from personal experiences. “AI can be helpful, but it has also taken away an important aspect in true storytelling,” she cautioned.
Looking to the future, Grace aspires to complete her studies, refine her songwriting abilities, and ultimately set up her own recording studio. For now, she emphasizes the importance of steady progress rather than rigid expectations. “At the end of the day, whatever the Lord has in store for me in the future, that is what I will work with,” she said.
Her message to aspiring artists is one of resilience and commitment in the face of challenges: “Be consistent, be hardworking in what you do and do it for yourself and your family. People’s opinions don’t matter when you are passionate about what you do.” Grace Vuata’s journey as an artist, storyteller, and aspiring journalist exemplifies the spirit of creativity and perseverance in the modern music industry.
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