Who Is George “Fiji” Veikoso?
George Brooks Veikoso, widely known as Fiji, was a renowned Fijian-Hawaiian singer, songwriter, and music producer. Born on May 10, 1970, and passing away on July 24, 2025, Fiji was a pioneer of Pacific Island reggae who fused R&B, hip-hop, jazz, and traditional island music to create a distinctive sound. He was one of the most influential figures in the Pacific music scene and a cultural icon for Polynesians worldwide.
Field | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | George Brooks Veikoso |
Stage Name | Fiji |
Nickname(s) | “Fiji”, “The Voice of the Pacific” |
Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Music Producer |
Known For | Reggae-Pacifica Fusion Music, Song “Lia”, Baywatch Theme |
Date of Birth | May 10, 1970 |
Place of Birth | Buretu, Tailevu Province, Fiji |
Grew Up In | Hawaii, USA |
Nationality | Fijian-American |
Ethnicity | Pacific Islander (Fijian) |
Religion | Christian |
Languages Spoken | English, Fijian |
Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Date of Death | July 24, 2025 |
Age at Death | 55 years |
Years Active | Early 1990s – 2025 |
Music Genres | Reggae, Island, R&B, Soul, Hip-Hop, Jazz |
Debut Album | “Evolution” (1994) |
Notable Works | “Lia”, “Stone Cold”, “Smokin’ Session”, Baywatch: Hawaii Theme |
Collaborated With | J Boog, Maoli, Tenelle, Kiwini Vaitai |
Awards | Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, Pacific Music Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award |
George Fiji Veikoso Early Life
George “Fiji” Veikoso was born in Buretu, Tailevu Province, on the main island of Fiji. From a young age, he was surrounded by music. His uncles, Isireli Racule and the legendary Sakiusa Bulicokocoko, played key roles in nurturing his musical talent. Fiji sang in church and performed at community events as a child, earning only a few dollars but gaining the passion and experience that would later define his career. In 1987, he moved to Hawaii, following the political unrest in Fiji. This move marked a turning point that launched his musical journey onto the international stage.
George Fiji Veikoso Education
While George did not pursue a highly publicized formal education, his early years in Suva saw him attend Assemblies of God Primary School and later St. Agnes School. His real education came through music: participating in church choirs, observing his uncles, and immersing himself in the musical culture of both Fiji and Hawaii.
George Fiji Veikoso Family
George came from a musically gifted family. His uncles, who were successful performers, had a profound influence on his artistic development. Though he kept his personal life mostly private, it is known that he deeply valued his family and heritage. Details about his spouse or children were rarely discussed publicly, as he preferred to let his music speak for him.
Relation | Name |
Father | Not Publicly Known |
Mother | Not Publicly Known |
Siblings | Multiple (names not disclosed) |
Marital Status | Believed to be Married/Private |
Children | Had children (names kept private for privacy) |
Note: Fiji was very private about his personal and family life.
George Fiji Veikoso Career
Fiji began his career with the Fijian band Rootstrata before launching his solo journey in Hawaii. His music blended various genres—reggae, R&B, hip-hop, island, and jazz—and he became one of the first Pacific Island artists to receive major international recognition.
Some of his most celebrated albums include:
- Evolution
- Born and Raised
- Gratitude
- Xperience
His breakout single “Lia” became an anthem across the Pacific. Fiji also co-wrote and performed the theme song for Baywatch: Hawaii and made a cameo appearance in the film Blue Crush in 2002.
Throughout his career, he worked with notable artists like J Boog, Maoli, Josh Tatofi, and Glenn Medeiros. He also contributed to the Grammy-nominated reggae compilation Island Warriors.
Fiji received multiple accolades:
- Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards (1998) – Male Vocalist & Favorite Entertainer
- Best Pacific International Artist at the Pacific Music Awards (2014)
- Lifetime Achievement Award at the Pacific Music Awards (2021)
In 2024, he returned to Fiji for a legendary two-day Homecoming Concert in Nadi, drawing thousands of fans and boosting the local economy.
George Fiji Veikoso Death
- Date of Death: George “Fiji” Veikoso passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 55.
- Cause of Death: While the exact cause wasn’t officially disclosed, close sources mentioned he had been facing health challenges, likely related to heart issues.
- Public Reaction:
- Fans and musicians across the Pacific, Hawaii, the U.S., and beyond expressed deep sorrow.
- Social media was flooded with tributes, performance clips, and memories.
- Government Tributes:
- The Fijian Prime Minister called him a “national treasure.”
- Hawaiian officials also honored him for his cultural contributions.
- Community Memorials:
- Memorial concerts were organized in his honor by artists such as J Boog, Maoli, and Josh Tatofi.
- A state memorial service was held in Nadi, Fiji, with thousands in attendance.
- Candlelight vigils took place in Honolulu and other Pacific cities.
- Radio stations ran 24-hour Fiji music tributes.
- Impact and Legacy:
- His death reignited interest in preserving Pacific music and identity, causes he deeply supported.
- He left behind a powerful legacy as a mentor, innovator, and cultural ambassador.
- His influence continues through the artists he mentored, the songs he created, and the cultural pride he inspired.
George Fiji Veikoso Social Media
Fiji was active on platforms like Instagram under the username @f1j1, where he shared music updates, concert clips, inspirational messages, and glimpses into his life.
Platform | Handle/Status |
@f1j1(memorialized) | |
Fiji – George Veikoso (active fan page) | |
YouTube | Fiji Veikoso (music videos & tributes) |
Spotify | Fiji (active artist page) |
TikTok | No official account |
George Fiji Veikoso Net Worth
By 2025, George “Fiji” Veikoso’s estimated net worth was between $2 million and $3 million. His wealth came from multiple sources:
Category | Details |
Estimated Net Worth | $2 – $3 million (at time of death) |
Income Sources | Music Sales, Live Performances, Collaborations, Licensing |
Real Estate | Homes in Hawaii and Fiji |
Awards | Nā Hōkū Hanohano, Pacific Music Awards, Lifetime Achievement |
George Fiji Veikoso Physical Appearance
Fiji had a commanding stage presence. He was tall, had a solid build, and often wore casual island attire, reflecting his Pacific roots.
Attribute | Description |
Height | Approx. 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
Weight | Around 95–100 kg (210–220 lbs) |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Brown |
Body Type | Broad and heavy-set build |
Distinctive Features | Long hair (often tied), signature sunglasses, expressive voice |
Interesting Facts about George Fiji Veikoso
- Fiji’s first paid performance earned him only $5 as a child.
- He came from a lineage of musicians and often credited his uncles for inspiring his career.
- His music reached over 500 million digital streams, a rare feat for a Pacific Island artist.
- He co-wrote the Baywatch: Hawaii theme song and performed it with Glenn Medeiros.
- His 2024 concert in Fiji drew fans from across the world and was attended by top government leaders.
- He appeared in the Hollywood film Blue Crush.
- Fiji was a vocal advocate for Pacific unity and youth mentorship.
- He passed away on July 24, 2025, leading to widespread mourning and tributes from artists worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is George “Fiji” Veikoso?
George “Fiji” Veikoso was a legendary Fijian-Hawaiian singer, songwriter, and producer known for his unique blend of reggae, R&B, jazz, and Pacific island music. He was a cultural icon who elevated Polynesian music to global audiences.
Q2. When and where was Fiji born?
He was born on May 10, 1970, in Buretu, Tailevu Province, Fiji.
Q3. What was Fiji’s breakthrough song?
His breakout hit was “Lia,” a soulful track that gained widespread popularity across the Pacific and helped solidify his position in the music industry.
Q4. Did Fiji win any major music awards?
Yes, he won multiple awards including the Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, Best Pacific International Artist (2014), and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pacific Music Awards (2021).
Q5. What genres did Fiji’s music include?
Fiji’s music was a fusion of reggae, R&B, hip-hop, jazz, ska, and traditional Pacific island influences, creating a sound that was both soulful and culturally rich.
Q6. Was Fiji involved in film or TV?
Yes, he co-wrote and performed the theme song for Baywatch: Hawaii and made a cameo in the Hollywood film Blue Crush (2002).
Q7. What was the significance of his 2024 concert in Fiji?
His “Homecoming Concert” in Nadi, Fiji, was a historic two-day event that attracted thousands of fans, boosted the local economy, and symbolized his lasting impact on Fijian culture.
Q8. When did Fiji pass away, and what was the reaction?
George “Fiji” Veikoso passed away on July 24, 2025. His death led to a massive outpouring of grief across the Pacific and the music world, with tributes from fans, artists, and leaders honoring his contributions.
Read more biographies and success stories of business leaders, celebrities, healthcare professionals, etc. at Leader Biography.