We spoke with singer Josh Tatofi on the red carpet. Josh Tatofi was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. His father, who was also in attendance, is established local musician Tivani Tatofi. Tivani is an original member of the acclaimed reggae band Kapena. As a child, music for Josh was inescapable. By the age of thirteen, Josh had begun performing throughout the Hawaiian Islands, establishing himself as a respected vocalist while gaining the recognition of his audiences and his peers. Josh is one of two Hawaii nominees in the regional roots music album category for first Hawaiian album, Pua Kiele.
So, how does it feel to be Grammy nominated?
Josh Tatofi: Not real. It’s crazy.
Is this your first Grammy nomination?
Josh Tatofi: My first nomination on my first album, so it’s crazy, yeah.
And since it’s your first album, how did you get your start in music?
Josh Tatofi: My dad’s a local musician. He’s actually here with me today. And I kind of just try to follow the footsteps of the music so that led me here.
Did your dad work with you on the music?
Josh Tatofi: I mean, he just worked with me my whole life, you know, so it’s just kind of one of those things, kind of passed down the torch.
Do you play an instrument as well?
Josh Tatofi: Yes, I am a vocalist and a bass player. Yeah, I’m a solo artist.
And tell me a little bit about the inspiration for this album.
Josh Tatofi: So, this album, of course, it’s out of Hawaii, so it’s a traditional Hawaiian album, kind of with a little R&B twist, so it’s like a modern day Hawaiian album, I guess you would say.
And for people who might not be too familiar with the genre, what do you want to tell them?
Josh Tatofi: Check it out and you can get at me at JoshTatofi.com. Just check it out. I do a lot of R&B stuff, too. But, you know, music is the universal language, so check it out.
And what’s next for you?
Josh Tatofi: You know, I don’t know, kind of just taking everything day by day right now, kind of just soaking in New York City, my first time to New York, so there’s a lot of first-time things going on right now, so, I’m stoked.
And do you know the other nominees?
Josh Tatofi: I have only met them because of the nominations, but another Hawaii artist is nominated as well, so, I know them, you know we’re all family. But I’m stoked for the outcome, but I’m more stoked for just the experience.
Custom Grammy cocktails provided by SVEDKA and hors-d’oeuvres were served. The event was also sponsored by Sound Royalties, which gifted everyone with socks. Music was curated by DJ D-Nice.
