Rotuman-Fijian Bassist Tahi Johnson Fiu Builds Global Production Career After Berklee

Tahi Johnson Fiu, a Rotuman‑Fijian bassist and producer now in Los Angeles, turned a childhood guitar obsession into a worldwide studio presence. After earning a Bachelor of Music from Berklee College of Music in 2023, he has produced tracks for artists across the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia, amassing more than 1.9 million Spotify streams on three releases. His work has charted in Ireland and the United States and has been played on U.S., London, and Finnish radio stations.

Born and raised in Sydney, Fiu was the son of renowned bassist Kepone Fiu. He received his first drum kit at age three and a guitar shortly after, sparking a lifelong passion for music. The family encouraged exploration of multiple instruments, and he later added bass, piano, and others. He learned early that talent alone was insufficient; discipline, humility, and respect were equally essential.

In 2018, Fiu applied to Berklee and impressed the admissions panel with a performance of Lee Ritenour’s “Rio Funk.” He earned a place in the Contemporary Writing and Production program, graduating on 13 May 2023. The education and network he gained there served as a launchpad for his post‑graduate career.

Since leaving Berklee, Fiu has established himself as a producer, songwriter, multi‑instrumentalist, and bassist. He contributed bass and guitar to the Irish single “Favela” by rapper KhakiKid, helping the track reach No. 10 on the Official Charts Company Irish Homegrown Chart and stay in the Top 20 for five weeks. The single also received airplay on iRadio, Spin 1038, and RTÉ 2fm.

In the United States, he worked on Ré Lxuise’s album Sorry 2 Disappoint You, serving as composer, producer, writer, and multi‑instrumentalist. The album peaked at No. 24 on both the Songstats United States and Global R&B/Soul Album charts, and it charted in Finland, Qatar, and Azerbaijan. Tracks were played on U.S. radio stations, as well as in London and Finland. In October 2023, Fiu assisted production for Ré Lxuise’s opening performance with Macy Gray and California Jet Club at Atlanta’s Eastern Theatre.

Fiu’s portfolio also includes work with kidsnot$aints, whose catalog has surpassed 42 million Spotify streams, and Donny Daydream’s VACANCY EP from Hong Kong. He has recorded with Korean guitarist Rock Choi, an endorsed artist for D’Angelico Guitars, Jim Dunlop, and Electro‑Harmonix. Live performances remain important; he played with the duo T&T, formed with Timothee Alex, at Berklee’s inaugural Grad Fest in Boston in 2023, and has supported Australian artist KIMMI at Sydney’s Oxford Art Factory.

Fiu’s career is notable for its focus on the production chair rather than the stage. While many Fijian musicians are known for live performance, he demonstrates that a foundation in production, songwriting, and session work can lead to global recognition. His achievements are reflected in chart data, radio play, and industry credits rather than headline billing.

He continues to collaborate with international artists, including Sony songwriter and producer Raphael George. Grounded in the values that guided his early life, Fiu says, “Show respect. Respect the music. Respect the people in the room. And never forget where you come from.” His journey—from a child’s guitar to a producer whose work is heard worldwide—offers a concrete example for young musicians in Fiji and beyond.

As of 2026, Fiu remains based in Los Angeles, working on new projects and expanding his influence in the global music industry. His trajectory illustrates how a strong foundation in music education, combined with disciplined studio work, can translate into international success.