California-born American Samoan, Sivasa T. Laupati is a Christian musician, singer, songwriter and artist. Known for his warm high-tenor voice, sleek Polynesian harmonies and melodious ukulele playing, Sivasa is a descendant of south pacific music. Accompanied by his family, and band, ‘ALAMAI, these men bring the gospel to the masses in a way unlike any other. His mission is to create bridges of communication and understanding through music & art to introduce and share the gospel.
Sivasa, known lovingly as Vasa, began his solo career in 2009. After recording two albums with The Revelation of Hope Singers, Vasa recorded and released his first solo album, “’till then…”. He collaborated with talented musicians such as Jacqueline Jewel, Russell Ivan, Andrew Jaegar, Filipo Lepulu Jr. and Jeremiah Waworoendeng to release his second album, “Love Letters”, released in July 2015. In September of 2019, an EP of hymns entitled, “Roses & Lilies, Vol.1” was released in collaboration with Songbird Ministries. June 15, 2021, Vasa released his fourth album, “Love Letters: The 23rd”, reuniting with producer Jordan De Guzman (“Love Letters”) and worked with producer Chad Manalo. Vasa has recently released a re-visitation of his song “The Calling” produced by John Dandan.
When he is not writing music or performing, Vasa’s passion is his art. He is best known for his work on shoes that he calls, “Tattoo’d Soles”. Each shoe is unique to the wearer, and they are never duplicated. This unique blend of Pasifika art in today’s world, speaks to his love of his heritage and his appreciation for artistic expression.
Vasa uses his platform to bring awareness to mental health issues. He is very open about the importance of addressing mental health issues as he personally understands the struggles of depression and anxiety. “Lightfall” is an original song that emphasizes a connection to God and an understanding of Vasa’s own journey with mental health to bring healing to a tragic situation.
Sivasa has a Masters of Science degree from Loma Linda University in Chaplaincy. When asked why he pursued Chaplaincy and not his music full-time, he said, “Chaplaincy and music ministry work hand-in-hand. Both will strengthen the other but will not take from the other. Both will open doors the other might not and both will bring healing to a hurting world.”
In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife Ceci, loved ones, catching a much needed nap, or enjoying the outdoors. He is a huge fan of frequent stops on long road trips, capturing memories in photos and videos.
Photo by Gregory Jhanapin
Photo by Gregory Jhanapin
Photography by Gregory Jhanapin