You ever get the feeling like people are waiting on you? Me neither. Ok, that’s how I been feelin’, but I’ve heard the call (more like a whisper), and I’m here to answer.. months later. Not 100% sure of my answer, but it’s an answer nonetheless. I might be taking a chance on all sides with this one, but we’ll find out soon enough if it’s a chance worth taking..

“FAST”. Produced by yours truly. If it ain’t obvious, the song revolves around a sample, which is an old childhood favorite, “Funga Sia” by Ulise Pole’o. Released in the mid ’90s as part of the album “Love Is All We Need” (a title that could’t be more relevant for our time now), it wasted not a second in becoming an instant classic amongst the Tongans. The Pole’o name is well-known amongst the Tongan community for their unweathered music, so it’s definitely a risk on my part in sampling this renowned record. However, as we all know, with great risk comes great reward.. High time for me to rise to the occasion. I’m confident in it, but you can never be too sure.

I digress. The record is a fun, upbeat song that I think may cater more to the younger audience; 9 and under range.. It’s summer, so I guess it’s only right I pander to the ones that’ll be the most energized and active. The decision was between this and the the next one I’ll be throwin’ out (soon), but I’m equally happy with both. My latest releases were a little serious and a bit gloomy, so I thought I’d lighten the mood a bit with this one. The record still carries some introspect, but I think I stayed true to the vibe- I don’t know, let me know how I did.

Also, there are 2 versions to this release. I acknowledge that my audience is well mixed in background, so I kept one all in English and the extended version mashed up with lyrics from the original song sampled and my own. However, if you’re lookin’ for the all-English version- both are actually available as FREE downloads through my bandcamp [https://sionetoki.bandcamp.com], follow the “buy” link or stream it on Spotify!

Onto the artwork/Israel Folau. Honestly, I don’t follow the bro all that much, so I couldn’t tell you what his stats look like. Although, I definitely took notice when the media here in the states started covering his “controversial” posts. I happened to be workin’ on this record when it all started snowballin’, and yet again, kismet, as far as artwork goes. Obviously I’m sidin’ with my dude, since I got him on the artwork and all. NOT because I’m in total agreement with his actions and what he believes in, but because I believe in freedom of expression. Folau was found guilty in violating his $4M contract a few days ago, so I suspect his career as a ball player might take a turn for the worse. He was presented a peace-offering by the AFL, but he stood firm by his convictions and declined. I truly admire Israel’s faith and his courage to put EVERYTHING at risk for what he believes in, showing many of us that material things are not important. At least, not as important as we might see it. If you’re not gonna take it from anyone else, maybe we should take it from someone that really is wealthy.

Alrighty, people. I hope you enjoy the record, as much as you have my others in the past. I’m slow at puttin’ content out, but I try my best to make the wait worth while. Feel free to let me know how you feel about it. BIGG SHOTS to ‘Ulise Pole’o for his personal approval of the sample, as well as BIGG TANKS to my dawg LOA POLE’O (of 3RP) for being my liaison to the legend. Last, but not least, I thank God for his countless blessings, one of which patient listeners like YOU. ’Til next time, friends and fam. FAST.