Veteran artist Gilman Lasaisuva has chosen the female vocalist to back him up in his Gilman Classics album. Speaking to Garam Masala, the Lau native indicated that his new album contained his hit songs from the past years.

“Two of those classic tunes were duets with Lela Seruvakula who now resides in New Zealand and will not able to be here for the recording,” the Nadi-based entertainer said. “I’ve looked around and has chosen female vocalist Ditui Abariga-Raoma. She is good and it’s great to work with her.”

Gilman and Ditui were guest artists in Makare’s first album- Gilman sang a duet with Rosiloa band leader Jim Vatusila while Ditui also sang Keu Lesuva with Phil Dakei.

Hit songs in Gilman Classics are Lakeba, Vorolaki Au, Ra Matau, Eso Era Vakataroga, Sevataki Dina Sara (duet with Ditui), So Na Bogi, So Na Siga (duet with Ditui) and so on.

Gilman said he is working hard in trying to secure a sponsor for the release of his Classics album.

From his humble beginnings, he spent most of his musical career in Noumea, New Caledonia where he was first introduced to the world of entertainment. Most of his hit songs were also composed there.

“I’m still looking for sponsors and hope to secure one soon as I’m planning to release the Gilman Classics in the second week of December,” he added.