TWO years after being released, Savuto Vakadewavosa’s song Vina Ga o Nadji is making a comeback.
In the past few months, it has become one of the most sought after songs on social media.
The 38-year-old independent recording artist (singer/songwriter) had released the song in 2023 as part of his Na i Loloma album.
He had written the song as a filler track for the people of Nadi to enjoy and didn’t really expect it to get much attention two years down the road.
Savuto Vakadewavosa finds it encouraging to know that people still connect with his work, even years later.
Savuto’s songs include Bulou Noqu i Tau, Sa i Vagadaci and Sa Ra Cariba continues to be all-time favourites on local radio stations and YouTube.
The song
Savuto has always had a soft spot for the tourist town of Nadi.
“Growing up in Lautoka, some of my fondest memories were school breaks spent at the CAAF Compound in Nadi with my uncle, Sailosi Qalilawa,” he said.
“Over the years, whether on holidays or for work, Nadi has always been a place filled with great memories shared with people I love.
“The song was inspired during an impromptu one-night trip to Nadi with friends.
“One of my friends kept saying this Nadi slang Vina Ga o Nadji Tam Lai Dhani. I asked what it meant and she explained it was basically their version of “What happens in Nadi, stays in Nadi”.
“I found it so catchy and thought this has to be a song.”
Melody and lyrics
When working on a song, melody is usually the first thing that comes to Savuto.
“Sometimes it comes in a dream, sometimes when I’m just vibing. I’ve written so many songs in my head during random moments.
“For Vina Ga o Nadji the melody came before the words. I started with the phrase Vina Ga o Nadji, imagining a salsa vibe.
“In my head, I could hear myself singing it while doing the cha-cha-cha!
For the song lyrics, he added the Nadi flair by incorporating the Nadi dialect. He reached out to one of his favourite songwriters, Mickey Niurua who helped him co-write the song.
“It was then produced by my OB and dear friend, Krishan Singh at Treehouse Production.”
Song gaining traction
Savuto recently found out from one of his friends that his song, had become popular on TikTok overnight.
“I started getting messages from friends like Vly, Joeli Naivalu and Kiti Niumataiwalu – I couldn’t stop smiling.
“As a songwriter, it’s always encouraging to know people connect with your work, even years later. It’s been interesting and humbling. I’m grateful to my listeners and supporters for always showing love, it has also shined a spotlight on the album, which many didn’t even realise I had released back then.
When asked if social media had played a significant role in the song’s resurgence, Savuto said ‘definitely!’.
“Social media has completely changed the game, not just in music but in society as a whole. It’s a powerful tool for promoting songs and turning them into trends.’
New project
Savuto believes in collaboration works and has worked on a few projects with incredible talented individuals in Fiji and abroad.
“I’ve been learning more about production work for live shows—something I became passionate about after working with Nem and Talei on the Butakoci production last year.
“This interest actually goes back to my high school days in California where I studied a bit of production, so it feels like things have come full circle. It’s been refreshing and motivating, especially as I prepare for my own future shows.
“On top of that, I’ve already started working on my next album, which we plan to release in about two years. I’m excited because it reflects a lot of growth from my life experiences.
“I’m collaborating with writers and artists from around the Pacific, as well Australia and the US Can’t wait to share it when the time is right.
His advice to those interested in music is “to be yourself”.
“Stay true to yourself but also keep a teachable spirit and be willing to learn and grow. Humility will take you further than you think.
“Remember, only God defines us. If you’re passionate and determined, you’ve already got what it takes. Pray, because through God everything is possible. Trust Him.”
Like Vina Ga o Nadji, Savuto’s song Bulou Noqu i Tau (written and composed by Laisa Vulakoro) also gained popularity a year after it was released.
Savuto has become a household name in music. Picture: Mate Na I Lavo
Cover artwork for the Na I Loloma album that included the song Vina Ga o Nadji. Picture: SUPPLIED
Savuto in the set of his ‘Veiraiyaki’ music vvideo from the Na I Loloma album. Picture: SUPPLIED
Recording the Na I Loloma album at the Tiny Sounds Studio. Picture: SUPPLIED
