Kiridox and Folau drop island love anthem before Valentine’s Day

Friday the 13th is meant to bring bad luck. But for two Tongan artists, it marks the release of a love song made for Valentine’s season.

Wellington-based Kiridox (Kiribati/Tongan) and Tongan-born Folau Atuekaho are dropping their new single AUE on Friday, leaning into island rhythms and romance just in time for lovers across Aotearoa and the Pacific..

In a recent interview on PMN Tonga, the duo said AUE marks a deliberate shift from their usual rap-heavy sound to something softer and more melodic - what they describe as a classic island “loverman” vibe.

The title AUE carries emotional weight across Micronesian and Polynesian languages, often used to express surprise, longing or deep feeling.

“I thought I’d kind of blend the cultures again,” Kiridox says. “It’s an island Valentine’s story for the Pacific lovers out there - the ones we know about and the ones we don’t.”

For Kiridox, the collaboration was intentional. He wanted a voice that could carry warmth and sincerity. “I thought, why not chuck on Folau, the ladies’ man - sorry, married man!” he laughs.

Beyond the vocals, AUE is also a visual love letter to the Pacific. The music video moves between Aotearoa and Tonga, connecting landscapes and cultures.

Kiridox was filmed among Wellington’s rolling hills and rugged coastline, while Folau’s scenes were shot along Tonga’s waterfront.

Folau managed to film his part while in the Kingdom to open for the reggae legends Ali Campbell and UB40.

Watch Kiridox and Folau's full interview below.

Produced by Nathaniel Tupou, the song draws on personal experience but aims for something universal.

“I don't have as much experience as you, John,” Kiridox jokes. “But it's just putting yourself into the perspective of someone who is yearning for peace, and you have a girl that you love and someone that you feel at home with. That’s kind of the message of the song.”

That sense of home, whether found in a partner, a place or a shared culture, sits at the heart of AUE.

Folau hopes the song connects in simple, everyday moments. “It's all [those] songs about love and connection,” he says.

“And those feelings that you can't put into words. So hopefully it finds a way onto everyone's playlist this weekend. Share it with someone special.”

With its mix of island soul, humour, and heartfelt lyrics, AUE aims to offer something familiar yet fresh - a Pacific love story told through rhythm and harmony.

Whether you’re driving to see someone special, heading to the gym, or even on your way to church, the duo hope their track becomes part of the weekend soundtrack.

AUE will be available on all major streaming platforms on Friday, 13 February. Pre-save here.