How Did Fiji Passed Away: The Pacific music scene lost a towering figure on July 23, 2025, when George “Fiji” Veikoso, the beloved Fijian-Hawaiian reggae artist, passed away at the age of 55. Known as the “King of Island Reggae,” Fiji’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics touched millions across the Pacific and beyond. His passing has left fans, fellow artists, and communities mourning the loss of a cultural icon whose music defined generations. While details surrounding his death remain limited, here’s a look at his life, legacy, and the impact of his untimely departure.
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A Voice That Defined the Pacific
George Veikoso, born in 1970 in Fiji, was more than just a musician—he was a storyteller who wove the spirit of the Pacific into every note. Raised in a musical family, with influences from his uncles, jazz legend Sakiusa Bulicokocoko and Isireli Racule, who worked with Elvis Presley, Fiji began singing in church as a young boy. His early performances in Fiji earned him a modest $5, but they sparked a lifelong passion for music. After moving to Hawaii in 1987 amid political unrest in Fiji, he embraced his Polynesian roots, blending reggae, R&B, hip hop, ska, and jazz into a unique sound that resonated globally. Hits like “Lia” and “Sweet Darlin’” became anthems, capturing the essence of island life and love.
The Circumstances of His Passing
Details about Fiji’s passing are scarce, with sources close to his family confirming his death on July 23, 2025, in Fiji, surrounded by loved ones. According to reports, no specific cause of death has been publicly disclosed, leaving fans searching for answers. Some social media posts suggest he had been in poor health for some time, but nothing has been officially confirmed. The Polynesian News Network announced his passing, calling him “a movement, a voice for the people, a light in the dark.” This lack of clarity has only deepened the sense of loss, as fans grapple with saying goodbye to an artist who felt like family.
A Legacy of Music and Unity
Fiji’s music transcended borders, blending Pacific languages and collaborating with global icons like Gladys Knight, Ziggy Marley, and Maxi Priest. His discography, which includes albums like Evolution (1994) and Born & Raised (1996), amassed over 500 million streams by 2023. Beyond his commercial success, Fiji was a cultural ambassador. He founded the TokoUso movement to combat gang violence, using his platform to promote Polynesian unity. His 2024 Homecoming Fiji concert in Nadi was a testament to his influence, boosting Fiji’s local economy and celebrating Fijian artistry. Fans remember that night as a magical moment when Fiji’s voice filled the air, uniting thousands in song.
Tributes Pour In from Around the World
The news of Fiji’s passing sparked an outpouring of grief across social media and news outlets. Kiwi reggae band Sons of Zion shared, “Forever in our hearts. Love you, Fiji, thank you for everything, King.” American producer Damon Elliott called him a “best friend and big brother,” crediting Fiji for believing in him when he doubted himself. Fans on platforms like Reddit shared personal stories, with one user writing, “His music was a big part of growing up here and helped me get through some rough times.” From Hawaii to New Zealand, tributes highlighted Fiji’s role as a cultural bridge, his music a soundtrack to countless lives.
The Enduring Impact of Fiji’s Music
Fiji’s legacy lives on through his timeless melodies and the values he championed. His work on the Baywatch Hawaii theme song and his Grammy-nominated collaboration Island Warriors showcased his versatility. He won the Na Hoku Hanohano Award for Male Vocalist of the Year and Favorite Entertainer in 1998, cementing his place in Pacific music history. As fans stream his classics on platforms like VITI+, his voice continues to echo, reminding us of the power of music to heal and connect. Fiji’s passing is a profound loss, but his songs ensure he’ll never be forgotten.
In this moment of sorrow, we celebrate George “Fiji” Veikoso—not just for his music, but for the love, pride, and unity he brought to the Pacific and beyond. His melodies will forever carry the heartbeat of the islands.