Tolu Finds Footing in Music Industry

The Tolu Fiji band has gained popularity over the years on the local music scene. Formed in 2011, the band performs at weddings, parties and other social events. They do cover songs, from classic old iTaukei songs, like Cakaudrove, Bua kei Macuata (CBM) and veivanua au dau sokota lo voli, to new school music.

With their soulful voices and guitar playing, if you were hearing them for the first time you would think it was the Maroon Five or UB 40.

Lead singer Pauliasi Koroiwaca is the son of Georgina Ledua, one of Fiji’s most loved singers.

He is originally from Nakini, Naitasiri and has maternal links to Liku, Nayau, Lau. He grew up in Lami and has four siblings. “Ever since I can remember I have always loved music from a variety of artists from within our local and international arena,” Mr Koroiwaca said. “From Black Rose, Stevie Heatley, Georgina Ledua, Boys to Men, Brian McKnight, Craig David, Luther Vandross and recently my obsession with Chris Brown.

His dad Iliaseri Koroiwaca, is a musician, composer and singer while his mum a renowned recording artists at that time. Koroiwaca’s singing was groomed in church and later evolved into public performances, during Fiji Day celebrations, school events and later eventuated in taking part in musical events. He was overwhelmed with all the attention his music got. but felt that he just got started.

Mr Koroiwaca has featured with local artist like Romulo Leweniqila, Saimoni Numa, Savuto, Kiti Niumataiwalu, Tua, Paulini Bautani, Ilisavani Cava, Red Child, Roland Williams, Jasmine Duxbury, and Elena Baravilala.

“I’ve performed with artists such as Paulini Curuenavuli and George Fiji Veikoso which for me was such a privilege and they are humbling world class individuals who inspire me to do more with my music,” he said.

People of the Friendly North was found swaying to the music as the Tolu Band was performing.

He said their name came about earlier last year when then they were performing at a wedding.

“A man approached us and suggested that we call ourselves the Tolu, because even with only three members and two instruments, the beat makes the music

Ever since I can remember I have always loved music from a variety of artists from within our local and international arena Pauliasi Koroiwaca Lead singer

sound complete,” he said. They worked as an in-house band at Cardo’s Restaurant in Port Denarau, Nadi and for them it’s always keeping up their standard through their music.

“We make sure that by the end of the night everyone’s had a great time,” Mr Koroiwaca said.

“It’s important for us to see that our music suits the crowd so that’s another challenge.”

Their long-term plan is to make an album and to do originals and be role models for upcoming artists and do their best in delivering great music.

“Social media is definitely going to be the biggest boost for our band and make people realise that we have absolutely so much to give,” he said.

The three band members are Pauliasi Koroiwaca, Romulo Leweniqila and Saimoni Numo.

Edited by Percy Kean