Fiji oulful Voice Silenced: George Veikoso, Iconic Singer, Passes Away at 55
George Fiji Veikoso Passed Away
The Pacific music community and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of George Brooks Veikoso, beloved Fiji singer, who passed away on July 23, 2025, at the age of 55. Known professionally as Fiji, the Fijian-Hawaiian reggae artist left an indelible mark on the music world with his soulful voice and culturally rich songs. While the cause of Fiji’s death remains private, the news of the singer Fiji passing away has sparked an outpouring of tributes, reflecting his profound influence as a Fiji artist and cultural icon.
George Veikoso Date of Birth
Born on May 10, 1970, in Tailevu, Fiji, George Fiji Veikoso grew up immersed in a vibrant cultural and musical environment. His early performances in church choirs ignited his passion for music, while his uncles—Isireli Racule, who contributed to Elvis Presley’s Drums of the Islands, and Fijian jazz legend Sakiusa Bulicokocoko—shaped his eclectic style. Blending reggae, R&B, hip-hop, ska, and jazz with Polynesian pride, Fiji, the musician crafted a sound that resonated globally. His first paid performance earned him a modest $5, but it marked the beginning of a journey that would see his music amass over 500 million streams by 2023.
Rise to Fame and Global Impact
Fiji’s career took off after relocating to Hawaii in 1987 amid political unrest from the Fijian coups. Joining the band Rootstrata, he honed his craft before launching a solo career with his 1994 debut album. His soulful hits like “Lia” and “Sweet Darlin’” became anthems across the Pacific, earning him a Grammy nomination for Island Warriors and a 1998 Na Hoku Hanohano Award for Male Vocalist and Favorite Entertainer. Collaborations with artists like Gladys Knight, Ziggy Marley, and Maxi Priest elevated his global presence, while his performances in Pacific languages solidified his role as a cultural ambassador. His contributions extended to film and television, including co-writing the Baywatch: Hawaii theme and appearing in Blue Crush.
A Legacy of Unity and Social Good
Beyond music, George Veikoso was a force for change. As the founder of the TokoUso movement, he worked to reduce gang violence, using his platform to promote social justice and hope, drawing inspiration from Bob Marley and Bob Dylan. His 2024 Homecoming Fiji concert in Nadi, a two-day event at King Charles Park featuring J Boog and Maoli, drew thousands and contributed an estimated FJD$1,000,000 to Fiji’s economy. Plans for a 2025 Homecoming Festival, where Fiji was set to headline, now stand as a poignant reminder of his untimely passing. His music, performed in multiple Pacific languages, united communities and gave voice to Polynesian pride.
Tributes Pour In as Fans Mourn
The question “Did Fiji the singer die?” began trending on X late on July 23, 2025, as news of the Fiji singer’s death spread. Fans expressed disbelief, with posts asking, “Did Fiji pass away?” and “Is the Fiji singer dead?” The Polynesian Music Network confirmed the loss, stating, “George Fiji Veikoso was the heartbeat of island reggae. His legacy is eternal.” Tributes flooded social media, with fans calling him the “GOAT of island reggae” and one writing, “Fiji died, but his music will live forever.” While “how did Fiji die?” remains unanswered due to his family’s request for privacy, the focus remains on his remarkable life. The Pacific mourns a man whose songs will continue to inspire and unite generations.
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