Emerging Fijian artist Tulagi is stepping into the spotlight with his new track “Sevataki,” featured on the recently launched Ga Ni Vatu album by VT1S. At 39 years old, Tulagi hails from Nabitu in Tokatoka, Tailevu, and has maternal roots in Nabaitavo, Naitasiri. He is one of the label’s newest talents and part of a diverse lineup of six performers on the album.
Tulagi’s musical journey began unexpectedly in his twenties, fueled by a deep appreciation for music rather than a planned trajectory into singing. “I wasn’t always a singer,” he reflected, recalling how a friend’s encouragement led him to participate in the television singing competition Kaila! Star Search. Although he didn’t achieve immediate success, the experience sparked a passion for nurturing his musical talents.
After relocating to Australia, he took music classes, returning to Fiji with a renewed focus on his artistic goals. Tulagi’s big break arrived in 2023 when he emerged victorious in the local singing contest Vocal Battle. Following this success, he juggled managing a bar and performing small gigs, which kept him in touch with the music scene.
A turning point came when he spotted an audition for VT1S, leading to his contribution to the Ga Ni Vatu album, which showcases six tracks from both seasoned and emerging artists. Tulagi’s song “Sevataki” delves into themes of heartbreak and emotional recovery, exploring the pain of losing a loved one and the challenges of moving on.
Differentiating his work from typical heartbreak-themed music, Tulagi incorporates a unique sound by blending emotional narratives with an upbeat rhythm rather than opting for a traditional slow ballad. “The verses are slower, but when it hits the chorus, it becomes faster while still maintaining the song’s emotional core,” he explained.
His connection to the lyrics is profoundly personal, and he draws inspiration from family, particularly a talented maternal grandfather he never met. Tulagi also cites legendary Fijian musician George Fiji Veikoso as one of his biggest influences.
Working with the VT1S production team marked a first for Tulagi, who was initially apprehensive about entering a professional studio. However, he found the team welcoming and supportive, which streamlined his recording experience. Now officially part of the VT1S roster, he is excited about his artistic future.
“This is a new journey for me,” Tulagi shared, expressing enthusiasm about where VT1S will lead him and the opportunity to share his music with a broader audience. He encourages aspiring musicians not to lose hope, advocating persistence in the face of setbacks.
With “Sevataki” featured on the Ga Ni Vatu album, Tulagi aims to connect with listeners who resonate with the complexities of heartbreak and the resilience required to overcome it. As he embarks on this exciting chapter, there’s a palpable sense of optimism about his growing career and the impact his music can have on audiences.
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