For Joji Kevetibau, widely recognized as Pojee, music embodies memory, emotion, and the essence of home. His musical journey is deeply rooted in the influences of his early years, particularly shaped by his grandparents. Pojee fondly recalls, “My grandmother sang in a choir. I grew up with her most of the time and she used to make me attend choir practices.” His late paternal grandmother, Limiva Sovakalia, who passed away in 2020, played a significant role in nurturing his love for music. She instilled values such as discipline and harmony, alongside a profound respect for the communal aspect of music-making.
His grandfather contributed essential lessons of patience and belonging, cementing Pojee’s artistic foundation. He reflects, “They shaped the way I see music, and the way I see life. From them, I learnt that music is not about showing off; it’s about connection.”
Born and raised in Nausori Village, Tailevu, with maternal roots in Tavualevu, Tavua, Pojee’s identity has always been intertwined with his family, community, and culture. As the middle child among three siblings, his childhood was rich with shared meals, storytelling, and the vibrant rhythms of village life. He emphasizes, “My family taught me about sharing, supporting one another, and staying humble. Those values still guide me.”
Music is a family legacy for Pojee, as several cousins, including Merelesia Ranatawake, Joave Ranatawake, and Lenati Ramakosoi of Kavula Production, were also engaged in singing and production. Observing their creative journeys provided him with an early model of music as both a passion and a craft. Additionally, local acts like Sekove Raikoro, The Redemption, Vocal Brothers, and Grace Symphony, along with the sounds of church and village life, served as vital inspirations for his artistic development.
A pivotal moment in Pojee’s musical story came with learning to play the guitar, which he describes as transformative. “Playing instruments helped me understand music better. It made it easier to write, arrange, and express what I’m feeling,” he shares.
His first notable public performance took place with VT1S, where he performed “Biliraki” by Stee Vereaukula. “I was really nervous. But I was also excited. That was the moment I realized this is what I want to do and keep growing in,” he recalls, highlighting a defining step in his musical trajectory.
Now residing in New Zealand, Pojee is engaged in a broader musical landscape, yet he remains steadfast in his roots. His songs are characterized by an intimate and honest expression of real-life experiences and emotions. “I want them to inspire, uplift, and connect — whether someone is going through something hard or celebrating something good,” he states.
For Pojee, music serves not as an escape from home but as an extension of it, with his grandparents’ teachings resonating in every note, rhythm, and performance. Regardless of where his journey leads, the warmth, discipline, and love imparted by his family will forever echo in his music, providing a hopeful connection to his past and the communities that have shaped him.