In an exciting milestone for local music, singer-songwriter Ratu Elijah Naitini, known as RATU, has become the first Fijian artist to collaborate with the godfather of Island Reggae, George “Fiji” Veikoso. Their highly anticipated song, titled “Vude Mai,” was released globally yesterday at 4 pm.
RATU recalls the unexpected moment when he learned about the collaboration. While on a bus heading to meet friends for a grog session, he received a call from his producer and songwriter friend, Joe Malafu, based in Australia. Curious as to why Malafu was calling at that time, RATU was surprised when Malafu said, “Mana, someone wants to talk to you,” and handed the phone over to none other than Fiji himself.
RATU was overwhelmed by hearing the words “Bula, boy” from his idol. Trying to remain composed, he had to ask to call them back, as the noise in the bus was so loud he could barely hear.
That bus ride, he said, felt like the longest of his life, with time seemingly slowing down as he processed the incredible news.
Over the past few months, RATU has had to keep the collaboration under wraps, even as he wondered when the track would be released. He sometimes thought about contacting Fiji to ask if they needed to rework the song, inject more energy, or even switch up his part with a rap verse.
For RATU, this moment marks the realization of a long-time dream. After years of hard work, recording a song with his hero George Fiji has finally become a reality.
Have a listen to the full song below:
Source: fijivillage