George Fiji Veikoso Dies at 55 : The islands of Hawaii, Fiji, and the global reggae community are grieving the sudden loss of George Fiji Veikoso, who died on July 22, 2025, at age 55. Known for his velvety voice and genre-blending hits like “Come Over” and “Love of My Life,” Fiji’s passing marks the end of an era for Pacific music. Born in Suva, Fiji, and raised in Hawaii, he spent three decades uniting cultures through soulful melodies rooted in reggae, R&B, and traditional Fijian sounds.
From Suva to Stardom: George Fiji Veikoso’s Humble Beginnings
Veikoso’s journey began in Fiji’s capital, where he absorbed the harmonies of Fijian folk and church music. After moving to Hawaii as a child, he honed his craft singing in church choirs and school events. His big break came when he joined the Hawaiian group “The Black Brothers” in the early 1990s, but it was his 1994 solo debut album, Born & Raised, that catapulted him to fame. The album’s fusion of reggae beats with Polynesian storytelling resonated instantly, earning him a devoted following across the Pacific.
An Iconic Solo Career: Hits, Awards & Legacy – George Fiji Veikoso
Fiji’s solo career spanned 15 albums, including classics like Transition (2004) and Grattitude (2013). His signature track “Come Over” became an anthem for island lovers worldwide, while socially conscious songs like “Warrior” highlighted Indigenous rights and environmental justice. His accolades include five Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards (Hawaii’s Grammy equivalent), cementing his status as a cultural ambassador.
“Fiji’s music wasn’t just sound—it was the heartbeat of our people,” said Hawaiian musician J Boog. “He made the world see Pacific artistry as revolutionary.”
Why George Fiji Veikoso’s Music Transcended Borders
Fiji mastered the art of musical alchemy:
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Cultural Bridge-Building: Blended Fijian vucu (chants) with Jamaican reggae and smooth R&B.
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Lyrical Authenticity: Wrote about love, diaspora identity, and resilience in pidgin English and Fijian.
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Live Performances: Electrified crowds at festivals like Island Reggae Fest and Polynesian Cultural Center events.
His influence extended beyond music, mentoring artists like Common Kings and advocating for Pacific Islander communities through charities like the Polynesian Voyaging Society.
Tributes Pour In: “A Light Extinguished Too Soon” – George Fiji Veikoso
News of Fiji’s death sparked an outpouring of grief:
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Hawaii Governor Josh Green called him “a voice that defined generations.”
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Reggae star Kolohe Kai shared on Instagram: “You taught us to sing from the soul.”
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Fans worldwide flooded social media with videos of beachside singalongs to “Sweet Darlin’.”
While the cause of death remains undisclosed, sources close to the artist confirm he’d faced health challenges in recent years.
Carrying the Torch: George Fiji Veikoso’s Enduring Legacy
Fiji’s impact is immortalized through:
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Genre Innovation: Pioneering “Pacific Reggae” as a mainstream force.
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Cultural Pride: Lyrics celebrating Indigenous Fijian and Hawaiian heritage.
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Mentorship: Launching careers for a new wave of Oceanic artists.
His final album, Rise of the Wise (2024), ends with the prophetic line: “Our stories outlive the flesh.”
Final Aloha: A Community’s Goodbye
George “Fiji” Veikoso’s funeral will be held in Honolulu on August 3, with plans for a memorial concert later this year. He is survived by his wife and three children. As flowers adorn his star on the Hawaiian Music Walk of Fame, fans continue sharing his music—proving that while the artist is gone, his voice remains eternal.
“In every strum of the ukulele, we’ll hear you,” wrote a fan from Suva. “Rest in rhythm, brother.”
Beloved reggae icon George “Fiji” Veikoso passes away at 55. Tributes flood in for the award-winning artist who shaped Pacific Island music. The Pacific Music World Shaken: George “Fiji” Veikoso Passes at 55.
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