In the latest edition of La Gente, Hispanos Unidos sat down for an exclusive interview with Siaosi, exploring the intricate layers of his musical journey and artistic evolution.
In the dynamic world of music, Island Reggae sensation Siaosi has not only etched his name in the industry but is also passionately committed to paving the way for emerging Pasifika artists.
His albums, “Blue Room” and “Everything is Good,” charted in at #9 on Billboard but also produced island favorites like “Feluteni,” “I’m Leavin,” “All I Need,” and “If You Were Mine.” His collaborations with industry giants like Fiji, J Boog, and others in the reggae genre have been instrumental in his growth. “You can see the timeline of the growth in the music and the voice,” Siaosi reflects. “It’s a journey from the younger me to where I am now.”
Now, with his latest album, “555,” Siaosi embarks on a new chapter in his artistic journey. The album, a manifestation of angel numbers symbolizing positive change, not only showcases his growth but also reflects his ability to seamlessly blend lover’s rock reggae with Polynesian-inspired harmonies. “I was going through a tough time, and these numbers represented change in a good way,” he reveals.
When asked for his personal favorite track, “I Wanna Love You,” holds a special place. Siaosi shares that the cover of the song is a photograph of his parents in traditional attire, waiting in front of a church. The image, etched in his memory since childhood, served as a source of inspiration during his darkest times. “I would always admire my parents’ relationship. And when I was in my darkest times, I was always looking at my parents to be like man, will I ever have this?” He continues, “That crazy story was half written in my darkest time and then finished in my happiest time. So it made sense as to why I could never finish the song,” he reveals.
Beyond his musical prowess, Siaosi is determined to uplift emerging artists in the Pacific Islander community. Recent collaborations with Harland Brewing Co, featuring the aptly named Siaosi Mango Otai beer, exemplify his commitment to opening doors for others. “I think it’s my duty to help uplift and open up avenues for us,” he states. The recent collaboration with Harland is more than just a partnership; it’s a symbol of breaking barriers and challenging preconceptions. For Siaosi, stepping out of comfort zones and venturing into uncharted territory is more than a professional choice; it’s a personal mission. “Understanding that there’s more out there that we deserve,” he says, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the potential within the Pasifika community.
Siaosi sees the collaboration as just one opportunity to open doors and create avenues for other Pasifika artists. His experiences underscore the importance of defying expectations, challenging stereotypes, and championing the presence of Pasifika culture in diverse spaces.
In Siaosi’s own words, “I’m here to open up the doors to them and do things like this, making other people realize and understand that even though it might seem unreachable, it is reachable. You can do it, you can move in.” This sentiment resonates across not just the Pasifika but all cultures, emphasizing the universal message that achieving one’s dreams requires envisioning a bigger future.
Reflecting on his own journey, Siaosi remains humble about his achievements. “It’s hard for me to see myself as successful. I don’t feel like I’ve reached my highest potential yet,” he confides, emphasizing the continuous evolution of his sound and style. His advice to aspiring artists echoes his own journey: “You never know until you try. Put yourself out there, step out of your comfort zone, and just try.”
In a world where cultural diversity often struggles for recognition, Siaosi stands as a beacon, advocating for visibility, representation, and the breaking down of barriers. His journey, from collaborating with different artists and companies to producing albums that echo his cultural roots, exemplifies the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that every artist, regardless of their background, deserves a place in the spotlight.
To learn more about Siaosi’s music and tour dates, visit the artist’s official website here.
Article by Pollyana Ramos Tucker