YOU may have heard the song Vei Bogi Kece or the famous CBM track and not know much about the woman behind them.
These songs were sung by the late Melaia Dimuri, a voice that has left a lasting mark on Fijian music.
This week, I feel honoured to share her story, especially as we come from the same village of Nasekula in Macuata, a place known for its beautiful people and voices, though some of my tauvu might disagree.
Melaia’s cousin, former Ministry of Information minister Joe Dimuri, said she loved singing from a young age.
“She always enjoyed music. Her father taught music, so it was no surprise she had a natural talent,” he said.
As Melaia’s passion grew, she began performing at village events and gatherings, where her voice quickly caught the attention of many. This led to the push from many people in persuading her to apply for a local talent show which helped launch her career.
“After the competition, she received invites to perform at Suva’s Dragon Nightclub, where her voice truly shone,” said cousin Joe, adding she graced the stage with confidence.
“When she sang, people stopped everything just to listen.”
She went on to become a lead vocalist for the popular band, Nostradamus, before launching her solo career, sharing the spotlight with some of Fiji’s top male singers.
Joe said the music scene in those days were dominated by men.
“She was one of the first women to step up and make her mark. She opened doors for many others.”
As her reputation grew, so did the opportunities.
Melaia became known not only for her commanding stage presence but also for songs that carried deep cultural meaning and pride. One of those songs was CBM, written by her father on a quiet afternoon.
“He asked Melaia to sing it, and it quickly became an anthem for people from Cakaudrove, Bua, and Macuata(CBM).
“Everyone felt proud when they heard it.”
The track’s message of unity and identity struck a chord with listeners across Vanua Levu, and over time, its popularity spread beyond Fiji.
The song reached number 98 on the Apple Music charts in 2021 and remains available on platforms like Spotify and YouTube.
Her ability to blend emotion with meaning wasn’t limited to patriotic songs.
Joe said her song Vei Bogi Kece was a heartfelt love ballad sung in Fijian.
“The lyrics tell of someone who can’t sleep, haunted by memories of a lost love.
“Her voice made that song timeless. It still moves people today when they hear it on the radio or at gatherings.”
Award-winning Fijian artist Laisa Vulakoro spoke highly of Melaia’s influence in the music industry.
In an interview with this newspaper, she recalled the times she would often sneak out to hear Melaia sing at the Dragon Nightclub.
“I got a hiding from my dad for coming home late, but I kept going because her voice was something special,” Laisa said.
She credited Melaia for paving the way for female artists in Fiji, saying she showed them what was possible.
Music producer Ramesh Hargovind, who worked with many Fijian artists, once said Melaia was one of the greatest performers of her time.
“She had rare vocal power combined with deep emotion. Not many singers can reach people like she did,” Hargovind said.
Sadly, Melaia passed away in 2012, but her influence remains strong.
“Even though she’s gone, her songs still live on. They remind us of where we come from and who we are,” Joe said.
Back in the village, people still tell stories of Melaia, of her modesty and humility despite her success.
“Always kind and focused on her music,” Joe said.
“Many remember her love for singing and her determination to succeed in a challenging industry.”
Her songs are now part of Fiji’s cultural memory. They carry pride and emotion, just like when she first sang them.
So, the next time you hear Vei Bogi Kece, listen closely. It is not just a song but a voice from one of our own — someone who came from our village and sang for all of Fiji.
Melaia Dimuri was a singer, a trailblazer and a daughter of the vanua.
She is no longer with us but her legacy remains alive in every note she sang.
