Tonga's emerging star steps into the spotlight

From the seaside village of ‘Umusi/Ma’ufanga in the Tongan capital of Nuku’alofa, a 20-year-old local singer is dreaming of sharing his music with the world.

His name is Patrick Jesse Taukolo, now known to many as Trixx. With a shy but gifted voice, he hopes that one day his songs will bring light and love to all who listen.

When Trixx joined John Pulu on PMN Tonga, it was clear that he was still getting used to the spotlight.

Soft-spoken, grateful, and humble, the young artist admits he is only just finding his footing in the music industry. But his voice is already turning heads across the island Kingdom.

“I grew up around church and found out I was able to sing by my dad,” he says. “We were supposed to be learning instruments, but I was no good at it. So he told me, ‘just go pick up the mic’.”

From that moment on, the self-taught singer began exploring his musical style, blending elements of soul, gospel, and island rhythm.

“Ever since, I’ve just been trying to figure out what to sound like and trying to find myself,” Trixx says.

Like many new creatives embarking on their journeys, Trixx had reservations about sharing his original compositions and lyrics.

“I was scared of what our people might think and how my family was going to react. So I just stayed in my comfort zone doing covers.”

But with encouragement and guidance from his friend, collaborator, and music producer Malkeezy, Trixx is now taking small steps forward towards his goal.

Malkeezy says that the pair are now producing music together, all from Tonga, with over 10 new tracks in the works.

“Bro is new to everything. He records off an iPad,” Malkeezy says. “But he’s got something special, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear what he brings to the table.”

The name “Trixx” was also a collaborative effort. Malkeezy says the young artist wanted to maintain some anonymity.

“Brother didn't want to go with his real name,” Malkeezy says. “[He] wanted to go undercover.

Watch Trixx and Malkeezy's full interview below.

“We took Patrick, we took the ‘Pat’ out and we used the ‘trick’. Well, we kind of spiced it a little bit. Put double x’s instead of ‘ck’. And we came up with ‘Trixx’.”

Their first release, Swing By, gives a glimpse of Trixx’s smooth tone and upbeat charm. For Trixx, the mission is simple.

“I just hope they vibe to it and do whatever they want with it. As long as they're being happy, enjoying it. Yeah.”

Malkeezy, who splits his time between Māngere East and Tonga, trusts in Trixx’s grounded spirit and natural talent, confident that he is destined for something bigger.

If his debut is anything to go by, their journey is just beginning.

You can follow both Trixx and Malkeezy on Facebook and Instagram.