Lauititi Togafau
Compiled by Bert Hall of the Samoalive News Alliance
Up and coming Samoan R&B soul singer Lauititi Togafau was in town recently over the weekend recording for his Las Vegas based group “Hawaiian Soul”. They had won a talent contest in the battle of the bands earlier in the year, and earned the opportunity to a recording contract with another R&B act, Camelot. Originally born and raised in Nanakuli, Hawaii – Lau moved to Las Vegas where he was able to polish and perfect his talents singing back up for R& B greats Luther Vandross, Patti Labelle, and Jeffrey Osborne. Adding to his experience, he toured with the likes of Brotherhood and Boys of Paradize which had a couple of Samoans in the group, brothers Jack and Charlie Hisatake of Los Angeles. Lau has since relocated to the Bay Area residing in San Jose as a loan officer while pursing his musical career. Lau grew up listening to his favorites Earth, Wind & Fire, Switch and DeBarge, which inspired him to follow his heart into the music industry. He also has an upcoming project with award winning producer, Derek “DOA” Allen who has produced tracks for SWV, Booyaa Tribe, Tyrese, and Brandy to name a few. The recording is in Sacramento, and should be completed in the fall. Lau’s talents have given him the chance to travel the world while expanding his musical base. Most recently he has toured with his nephew, Pati (of the Hawaiian music scene) assisting with the vocals and production. He is now preparing his rendition of the national anthem, which will open the Pacific Islands Festival in San Diego on September 27, 2002. Lau’s favorite things include spending time with his three children, nieces, nephews as well as participating in sports. He is the son of Sefulu Togafau of Las Vegas and Ane Tuitele of Hawaii. Be on the lookout for this talented Uso of Samoa. You can learn more about Lau at www.sukasamoa.com, or contact him at: Ltogafau@yahoo.com.