Movies

New Zealand music industry in mourning after legendary musician dies – prompting tributes from world famous artists

BBG News

The musical community of New Zealand is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Chris Ta’aloga Faiumu, a founding member of Fat Freddy’s Drop, who was affectionately known to fans worldwide as DJ Mu.

On Wednesday, it was sadly confirmed by his bandmates that the renowned musician, band leader, and music producer unexpectedly passed away.

As a connoisseur of life’s rhythm, it’s with a heavy heart that I share the sudden departure of our enigmatic pioneer, music mastermind, tastemaker, and kin, Chris Faiumu – better known as DJ Mu. In an unexpected turn of events, we find ourselves in the midst of a tectonic change within our musical sphere.

They added: ‘Tears flowed on receiving word that your journey had taken you to the heavens, Chris.

The star that guided us on our sea voyage is no longer visible, and the floral wreaths that crowned your head during our travels remain shattered ever since you departed, my dear Brother.

To keep up with the latest on Hollywood scandals, fashion faux pas at premieres, breaking celebrity photos, and trending video clips, sign up for our DailyMail Showbiz newsletter!

In simpler terms, Faiumu was a co-founder and driving force behind the popular New Zealand reggae group Fat Freddy’s Drop, which started as informal late-night jams in Wellington during the early 2000s. They eventually grew to be one of the nation’s most successful music acts, known worldwide.

For the last twenty years, the band has cultivated a dedicated global fanbase, consistently filling up concert halls throughout Europe and Australia.

Four of the band’s albums reached number one at home, and two charted in the Australian top 20

In a self-reliant setup, Nicole Duckworth, Faiumu’s partner, handled the band’s affairs.

The news of his passing has created ripples worldwide in the music community, as musicians from various corners express their condolences and admiration.

‘DJ Jazzy Jeff, a renowned hip-hop artist, expressed his sorrow by saying, “My spirit feels shattered… You always made me feel welcome… Thank you and may your spirit continue to pulse strongly!”‘

Australian singer Tay Oskee added: ‘This hits hard. Rest in peace legend.’

DJ Mu is well-known for maintaining a modest demeanor while spinning records, frequently leaning over the turntables as he crafted the catchy rhythms that formed the foundation of Fat Freddy’s distinctive musical style.

He skillfully blended reggae, soul, dub, funk, and electronica, heavily influenced by his Pacific heritage.

Raised in the Wellington suburb of Wainuiomata, Faiumu was one of five children born to Samoan immigrant parents.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I fondly recall my days at Scots College, a place where my unique moniker, ‘Mu,’ was born. My classmates struggled with the pronunciation of my surname, and thus, they creatively bestowed upon me this nickname that has since stuck.

It stuck, and would later become a name known in music circles around the world.

His journey into music started during his university years when he discovered the campus radio station called Radio Active. Within moments, he found himself broadcasting live on air.

That instance ignited an enduring enthusiasm within me for disc jockeying, sound creation, and advocating New Zealand’s unique musical scene, which has remained constant throughout my life.

Initial sound experiments gradually transformed into impromptu musical collaborations with artists in Wellington’s nightspots, culminating in the inception of Fat Freddy’s Drop.

He is survived by his long-term partner Nicole and their daughter Mia.

Read More

2025-07-18 15:03

Previous post Wall to Wall ending explained: Where is the noise coming from?
Next post Discover the Hidden Secrets of the Smurfs: A Journey through Blue History!