Tou Mai Laveta - Fijian Celebration Chant (Castaway Island)

This centuries-old Fijian war chant dates back to 1853 when Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau was installed as Vunivalu (Paramount Chief) of Bau, and claimed the title of Tui Viti (King of Fiji). It is known and sung by every native Fijian today and is sung at ceremonial events to celebrate happiness and pride including New Year's Eve, weddings and the start of a rugby game! Like the Fijian farewell song "Isa Lei", it will leave you trembling and emotional. Thanks to Semi in the band and all the staff of Castaway Island, Fiji. Recorded January 27, 2012. Lyrics in Fijian & English below...
Tou mai laveta na noda marau
Vua na Tui na Vunivalu
Meda Vakamudu...muduo Vua
Ni nona kece....kece na lewa
E na veiyabaki, sa oti tu
Sa sivia kece na noda i gu
Ka sa yacova dina tu
Bogi lockuci, bogi oqo.
Sa ka ni marau dina sara vei au,
Ni yaco na bula vei iko kei au
Na wasa ka tu na wasa balavu
Keirau sokota kei Yalo Tabu
Let us lift our happiness
To the King of Fiji
Let us all bow to him
Because he now owns everything
For all the years that have past
We have put so much into it
Now the day has come, we
All have been waiting for
I'm so happy today
That life has begun for you and me
Through the rough times
And the good ones
Remember God is always with us