Musician and composer Etta Gonerogo rung in 2026 not on stage but surrounded by family and the natural beauty of her Fijian roots, a conscious choice which she described as the “best decision” in years.
In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Times, the artist reflected on a profoundly personal New Year’s Eve spent with her children and loved ones, breaking from the tradition of performing during the lucrative holiday countdown.
“For the longest time I haven’t been with them,” Gonerogo shared.
“This year was a really good, close family meet, just me and my children and my loved ones.”
Reset in Lovoni
Following the celebrations, she travelled to Lovoni, an interior village on Ovalau, where she reconnected with traditional customs and the natural environment.
Which was an experience the singer described as “reconnection to her roots”.
“I felt a sense of connection with nature and with God,” she said.
“It was a good beginning for 2026.”
The time away sparked both personal reflection and creative renewal.
Gonerogo confirmed she has been writing extensively and plans to enter the studio soon to share a “new version” of herself with the public.
“I’ve healed,” she stated, hinting at new music that will span genres and stories close to her heart, including a song about a “battered woman” that she is looking forward to releasing.
Prioritise and reconnect
While careful not to prescribe how other artists should manage their demanding schedules, Ms Gonerogo emphasised the importance of stepping back when possible.
“I would encourage, if you can afford it and if you have time, to reconnect back with nature,” she advised.
“It has to take you back, self-reflection and you get to prioritise what’s very important.”
AI in music
Asked about the rising influence of AI in music, Gonerogo took a well-balanced and neutral tone.
“We really can’t fight against it because it’s the change,” she acknowledged.
“You can work with it or continue with your originality.”
Her advice to fellow artists was to be more pragmatic and try to blend innovation with authenticity and focus on what resonates with listeners.
Support and hope for the future
To her fans, Gonerogo’s New Year’s message was to continue to support artists through their digital platforms.
“Subscribe and listen to our songs,” she urged.
“It’s through streaming, everything online.”
Ms Gonerogo expressed her hope to carry the peace of this year’s celebrations into the next, to devote herself more to her children, nieces and nephews in particular to strengthen family bonds and appreciate those who truly matter.
