Local Music Legend Dies At 71

Fiji’s local music industry has expressed sadness at the passing of Jese Mucunabitu.

Mr Mucunabitu’s songs were often about our homeland, the beauty of islands, the serene surroundings and the friendly people.

The 71-year-old music legend was known to be an iconic musician, composer and singer around Fiji.

Fiji Performing Rights Association Limited directors Seru Serevi and Eremasi Tamanisau said Music legend Jese Mucunabitu will be truly missed by all Fijians.

“He will be remembered for his beautiful compositions and his songs,” Mr Serevi said.

Mr Serevi said Mr Mucunabitu’s songs were loved by tourists and Fijians living abroad. He said the songs brought them wonderful memories of their home.

“Some of his hit songs are; Heaven in my Fiji, Tropical Dawn, Fascinating Fiji, and other cover songs like Susi, Lomaloma, My Taveuni and many more,” Mr Serevi said.

He said Mr Mucunabitu started his music career in the late 60s and early 70s at the local Talent Quest in Suva with songs like, ‘You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling,’ ‘Quando, Quando,’ and ‘Green, Green Grass Of Home’.

Mr Serevi said Mr Mucunabitu died yesterday morning at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital after suffering a prolonged illness.

“We had a small reunion together last year to celebrate his achievement after he received his Fiji50 anniversary medal from the President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote,” he said.

Mr Tamanisau said he was shocked to hear about Jese’s death and it broke his heart.

“I am shattered and devastated about the sad news and he was not only a musician, but also a close friend to me,” he said.

“He was a humble man. He performed in style.

“He even shed his tears while performing on stage because that is what music meant for him, emotions.”

He said Mr Mucunabitu was unique and was always passionate about Fiji.

“Fiji has lost an iconic and one of the best musician in Fiji.”

Jese Mucunibitu was from Bau Island and is survived by his wife and six children.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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