Semesa Jr Vasukicakau, a name synonymous with talent and dedication in the Fijian music scene, is carving his path to success, following in the footsteps of his late father Semesa Senior.
Born into a musical family and hailing from Dravuwalu in Kadavu with maternal links to Qoma in Tailevu, Semesa Jr, along with his brother Samu, has not only inherited the gift of music but also honed his skills to become a promising musician, songwriter and inspiration to other young people.
“My dad was not a big-time singer, but he played the piano and guitar very well; he’d perform at small occasions,” Semesa Jr says.
From the tender age of eight, he found solace in the melodies, his voice carrying tunes beyond his years. By the time he turned nine, he had already picked up the guitar, mastering chords under the guidance of his brother.
However, it was not just about playing instruments; he was destined for creating memorable rhythms in songwriting.
“After losing my father when I was six, my brother taught me how to play the guitar because he learned from my father, so even though he was not known, we wanted to follow in his footsteps,” Semesa Jr says.
At 15, while navigating his junior year at Dudley High School, he delved into the art of songcraft, pouring his heart into lyrics that resonated with his experiences and aspirations.
This creative pursuit only amplified his passion for music, propelling him into the vibrant Fijian music scene.
“Me and my friends would meet up after school and write songs and then compare whose was better and more lyrical.”
In 2014, at the age of 17, Semesa Jr took a leap of faith and participated in the popular Vodafone MIC Show, a platform revered for nurturing budding talents across Fiji back then.
His remarkable performance caught the attention of many, opening doors of opportunity, including an offer to study music in Australia.
Although the offer didn’t materialise, it served as a testament to his burgeoning talent and potential.
“I was excited about the mic show; it got me an offer to study abroad, but I guess God had a different plan for me back then.”
His musical journey crossed paths with his brother Samu, who rose to prominence in the local music landscape. Together, they formed a formidable duo, enriching their craft and inspiring each other to reach greater heights.
Semesa Jr’s contributions to the renowned Fijian boy band X9 Homies underscored his versatility, showcasing his knack for composing infectious hooks and melodies.
“At X9, I learned the bigger things and saw how music was being produced, so they helped me write a few hooks for some of their songs.”
In 2018, Semesa Jr embarked on a new chapter, joining the band Bitz n Pieces, where he continued to captivate audiences with his musical prowess until 2020.
However, his break from performing marked the beginning of a profound reflection as he redirected his focus towards music composition.
Since 2022, Semesa Jr has immersed himself in his songwriting, channelling his experiences, dreams and aspirations into poignant lyrics that resonate with audiences.
His unwavering dedication to his craft serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring musicians, especially within his community.
“I have some things I’m currently working on, and when they are ready, everyone will hear them.”
Driven by a desire to uplift his community through music and inspired by his brother’s success, he aspires to become a role model for youths, demonstrating the transformative power of passion, perseverance and dedication.
As he prepares to return to the studio, his journey stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Vasukicakau family in the world of music, leaving an indelible mark on Fiji’s cultural landscape.
