George Fiji Veikoso death: Reggae icon leaves behind loving family and multi-million dollar legacy

Time of India

6 days ago

George Brooks Veikoso, known across the Pacific and the world as Fiji, a pioneering figure in Island reggae and one of the most influential Polynesian artists of his generation, has passed away at the age of 55. The artist reportedly died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.
Widely referred to as
The Voice of the Pacific
, the singer's death has triggered an outpouring of grief and remembrance across the Pacific Islands, Hawaii, and the global reggae community. Social media tributes have flooded in since news broke that
George Fiji Veikoso died
on July 24, 2025.
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Also Read | Fiji singer death: Who was George Fiji Veikoso, and has the cause of death been revealed?
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Early Life and Musical Roots
Born on May 10, 1970, in Buretu, Tailevu Province, Fiji, George Veikoso came from a musically inclined family. His uncles, including the late Sakiusa Bulicokocoko, were pivotal in shaping his early love for music. Fiji began singing in church choirs and performing in community events from a young age. These early years provided a foundation that would later make him a household name, as per a report by Leader Biography.
Following political unrest in Fiji during the late 1980s, he moved to Hawaii in 1987, a turning point that catapulted his music career to international levels.
Entry into the Music Industry
Veikoso began performing with the Fijian band
Rootstrata
before embarking on a solo journey in Hawaii. By 1994, his debut album
Evolution
introduced his unique fusion of reggae, R&B, and island sounds. It was the 1996 release
Born & Raised
that transformed him into an icon. Songs like 'Lia,' 'Smokin' Session,' and 'Good Thing' became Pacific anthems.
Live Events
Over the decades, he collaborated with key artists such as J Boog, Maoli, and Tenelle, earning acclaim not just for his voice but for elevating Pacific Island music on the global stage.
Legacy and Awards
George 'Fiji' Veikoso was the recipient of multiple accolades throughout his career. He won several
Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards
and was named
Best Pacific International Artist
at the 2014 Pacific Music Awards. In 2021, he was honored with a
Lifetime Achievement Award
for his contributions to regional music.
In 2024, he returned to Fiji for a historic two-day homecoming concert in Nadi that drew thousands of fans and government dignitaries.
Personal Life: Family and Privacy
Though a beloved public figure,
George Veikoso Fiji singer
, maintained a notably private personal life. While sources confirm that he was married and had children, the artist chose not to share specific details about his family in public. His social media focused on music, culture, and inspirational messages rather than his domestic life.
He often expressed gratitude for his family and Fijian roots, crediting both for keeping him grounded despite international success.
The Day the Music Stopped: How Did Fiji Pass Away?
While an official cause of death has not been disclosed, close associates noted that the artist had been facing ongoing health complications, believed to be related to heart issues. The lack of official detail has not stopped fans and peers from honoring his life and contributions.
Fellow musicians Kimie Miner and Kelly Delima were among the first to express their sorrow. 'It really hurt because I felt like I couldn't call on my mentor anymore,' Miner wrote. 'His legacy is so big, I know it will carry on forever', as quoted in a report by The Times of India.
Global and Regional Tributes
Following the announcement that George Fiji Veikoso died, tributes came pouring in from across the Pacific and beyond. The Fijian Prime Minister referred to him as a 'national treasure,' while Hawaiian officials praised his role in preserving and promoting native music traditions.
Memorial concerts were immediately organized, with performances from regional stars such as J Boog and Josh Tatofi. Candlelight vigils took place in Suva, Honolulu, and other Pacific cities. Radio stations across the region aired 24-hour Fiji music marathons in his honor.
Net Worth and Financial Legacy
At the time of his death, George Veikoso's net worth was estimated between USD 2 million and USD 3 million, as per a report by The Times of India. His income streams included:
Album and digital music sales
Live performances and tours
Licensing of music for films and TV shows (notably
Baywatch: Hawaii
)
Collaborations with regional and international artists
He owned property in both Hawaii and Fiji and remained financially independent through decades of evolving musical trends.
Cultural and Musical Influence
Veikoso's unique style—melding reggae, hip-hop, R&B, and jazz with traditional Pacific elements—earned him a revered place in world music. He mentored numerous young musicians and was an outspoken advocate for Pacific unity and youth empowerment.
He also made a cameo appearance in the Hollywood film
Blue Crush
and co-wrote the theme song for
Baywatch: Hawaii
. His catalog has since achieved more than 500 million digital streams, an extraordinary feat for any artist from the Pacific.
FAQs
Who was George 'Fiji' Veikoso?
George Brooks Veikoso, widely known as 'Fiji,' was a legendary Polynesian singer, hailed as the
Voice of the Pacific
. He was a pioneering force in Island reggae, blending traditional Pacific influences with reggae, R&B, hip-hop, and jazz.
When and where was Fiji born?
He was born on May 10, 1970, in Buretu, Tailevu Province, Fiji.