WOULDN’T it be lovely to be a part of a function that had a musical band that could play all different genres of music?
If you are one of those happy feet people who love to make use of the music, then The Rubber Band Fiji is just the right band for you.
They may have not hit the waves in Fiji’s musical industry but they will surely be one to look out for in the coming years given the experience of two experienced Fijian musicians — Waisake Naulivou and renowned Fijian guitarist Jim Ratusila who are now leading the band into its second year in the music industry.
Their lone female vocalist, Vina Tuinuku aka Venus Twain (because of her love and admiration of Shania Twain and can do any of her songs), was a member of the first-ever girl band in Fiji, Brown Sugar and was a former singer for Arthur Philitoga.
Many would wonder why it was given this name but this name alone speaks volume of the artistes’ musical talents.
Band marketing and promotion manager Kini Saukuru said the band derived its name from the flexibility and versatility of its members being able to play any genre of music and play multiple musical instruments.
The band, based in the Jetset town of Nadi is renowned among hoteliers and the tourism industry as music is their life, love and passion.
“We pride ourselves on making people happy through our music,” Ms Saukuru said.
“The band plays extensive genres to suit all ages and tastes.
“Their repertoire ranges from Fijian classics, Fijian vude, ballads, pop, country, jazz to top 40 and others and they will for sure keep happy feet moving and tapping.”
Founder Waisake, a former teacher, said music was everyone’s profession in this band which they called a family.
“As music is our profession, something that we have always dreamed of, we felt that instead of staying in our comfort zone of performing during our contracted nights.
“We felt the urge to maximise our musical abilities by utilising the other remaining nights offering our services musically for any given function be it a major corporate function or a budgeted small event,” Naulivou said.
“Hence the birth of TRBF.”
The band is based at the Sofitel Resort & Spa on Denarau at the Breeze Bar and the exclusive adults only Waitui Beach Club.
You can also catch them on alternative days jamming at Lautoka’s Waterfront Hotel.
Sometimes the band will comprise a trio, four piece or full six-piece live band. They are also available for weddings, birthdays, corporate events and any other functions that need music.
Some of their recent achievements was when they played at the opening of the Fijian Tourism Expo, the launch of the 2016 Bula Festival and other corporate events in the Western Division.
Band members;
Waisake Naulivou- Team leader/keyboards/vocalist/ bass.
Jim Ratusila — lead male vocalist/ bass/lead guitarist.
Vina Tuinuku — female vocalist/acoustic guitar.
Bish Naulivou — keyboard/vocalist/ bass.
Eroni Mave — vocalist/drums.
Setareki Ryder — drums/vocalist.
