Hawaiian singer‑songwriter Fia discussed the long‑awaited release of his debut album Never Give Up in an interview with Paul Cashmere on Noise11. The album, issued on 23 August 2024 by Ineffable Records, blends R&B, island reggae and gospel influences that the artist cites as shaped by his upbringing in church and his Samoan heritage.

In the interview, Fia explained that the album’s release was delayed by life circumstances and a belief that the record would arrive “exactly when it was meant to.” He said the title track, “Never Give Up,” reflects that sense of timing. The album’s track list includes songs such as “Sweet Candy Apple,” “Hold You Tonight,” “Just Gimme Love,” and the title track, which together showcase the artist’s vocal range and songwriting style.

A key theme in the conversation was the personal origin of the single “Love Me.” Fia revealed that the song was originally written for himself and his wife and was not intended for public release. Friends encouraged him to share it, and it became one of the defining recordings of his career, helping to introduce his music to a global audience.

Fia also spoke about the stories behind other tracks. “Fly Away” was written for the woman who would become his wife during a difficult period in both of their lives, while “Be Better” emerged as an inspirational anthem born during the challenges of the COVID era.

The interview highlighted a period when the pressures of the music business almost led Fia to quit. He said that, instead of giving up, he rediscovered music as a gift and a way to connect with people through messages of love, healing and hope.

According to the interview, Fia will perform songs from Never Give Up live for the first time during an upcoming tour in Australia and New Zealand. The tour schedule announced by Noise11 lists the following dates:

27 October – Auckland, Powerstation 29 October – Sydney, Liberty Hall 30 October – Melbourne, Northcote Theatre 31 October – Brisbane, The Tivoli

These performances will mark the first live debut of the album’s material outside of the United States.

Fia’s musical influences include contemporary R&B artists Chris Brown and Calvin Richardson, as well as classic soul singers Stevie Wonder and Luther Vandross. He explained that growing up in church and participating in the choir helped develop both his voice and his songwriting perspective.

The album’s release was announced on social media on 13 August 2024, with a video on Facebook noting the 23 August launch date. The album’s cover and track list are available on Bandcamp, where it can be streamed or purchased.

The interview was posted on Noise11’s website and promoted through the site’s daily music news email alert and YouTube channel. The article also references the artist’s official website and Facebook page for further updates.

Fia’s story illustrates how personal resilience and community support can shape an artist’s career trajectory. His debut album, released at a time he describes as “exactly when it was meant to,” has already attracted attention from Pacific Island music fans and the broader R&B and reggae listening community.

The upcoming Australasian tour will provide fans with the opportunity to experience Fia’s music live for the first time, potentially expanding his international presence.

The article is based on the interview published by Noise11 on 8 hours ago and corroborated by the album’s release information on Bandcamp and the artist’s social media announcements.