Josh Tatofi to Energize Tongan Rugby Match with Live Performance

Josh Tatofi, the Hawaiian-born Tongan singing star, is set to deliver a thrilling performance during the highly anticipated Tongan rugby league match against the Kiwis. Scheduled for October 14, 2023, at Eden Park, Tatofi will sing the Tongan national anthem before taking the stage for a 30-minute concert following the game. His participation in this event has generated excitement among rugby and music fans alike.

In an interview with the Herald, Tatofi expressed his enthusiasm: “Oh, I’m excited – I’m super excited to play this weekend. That’s all I keep thinking about.” Known for his popular tracks like ‘Ouana’, ‘Storms Never Last’, and ‘I’m Gonna Love You’, Tatofi’s presence is expected to elevate the atmosphere at the Pacific Championship clash.

Connecting Cultures Through Music

With a significant fan base in New Zealand and the wider Pacific region, Tatofi’s music resonates deeply with audiences. The singer, who grew up in Hawaii and frequently visited his family in the Tongan villages of Vainī and Ma’ufanga, has seen his popularity soar. Last year, his South Pacific tour sold out venues across the Pacific Islands and Australia, including major cities like Wellington, Christchurch, and Auckland.

Fans who missed out on tickets for Tatofi’s performances have previously found joy in witnessing his talent at events like the Pacific Music Awards. At last year’s ceremony in South Auckland, the audience erupted with enthusiasm, causing security to struggle to manage the crowd as they rushed to the stage.

“I have a lot of family in South Auckland and down in Christchurch. I have visited many times,” Tatofi shared, highlighting his strong ties to New Zealand. His music often features Pacific languages, including Hawaiian, Tongan, and Samoan, and he has expressed interest in performing a song in te reo Māori in the future.

Celebrating Pacific Heritage

Tatofi’s admiration for New Zealand music is evident. He cited his favorite Kiwi artists, including R&B duo Adeaze, Aaradhna, Stan Walker, and the Wellington band Fat Freddy’s Drop. “I’ve been a fan of the musicians out of Aotearoa for forever,” he noted. Joining Tatofi at the event will be fellow Pacific artist, rapper Savage, who will perform during half-time and in between matches.

Savage, a notable figure in the New Zealand hip-hop scene, made history as the first Kiwi hip-hop artist to achieve platinum status in the US with his commercial single. His collaboration at the event adds another layer of excitement for attendees.

Currently, Tatofi is in the studio working on a new album in San Francisco and Nashville, with plans for release in early 2024. When asked if his work in Nashville would incorporate a country music influence, he reminisced about his childhood, recalling moments spent planting taro and sweet potatoes with his grandfather and the songs they used to sing together. “I’ve been doing a lot of country music – but [with] island vibes, of course,” he said.

Fans can expect a mix of reggae, country, and R&B elements in his upcoming album, along with several love songs. “I feel like the South Pacific has deemed me a love song singer,” Tatofi quipped. “So you can definitely expect to hear a lot of love songs coming your way.”

Proud of his South Pacific heritage, Tatofi acknowledged the unwavering support of the Tongan community. “Seeing my family move from Tonga to Nu’u Sila (New Zealand) to Hawaii gives me motivation. I find motivation in different parts of life: sometimes struggle, sometimes happiness – and that’s what keeps me going daily,” he concluded.

As the excitement builds for the match, Tatofi’s performance promises to be a memorable highlight, celebrating both Tongan culture and the spirit of rugby in the Pacific region.