CLAD in his signature attire blue three-quarter shorts and T-shirt, Andrew Bolakoro didn't exactly scream "artist" to us.
The Lauan native, who studied graphic arts at the Fiji National University, is in fact an artist who takes his work very seriously.
"People underestimate my talent but that's all right because my passion for art sustains me," he said.
The 20-year-old is commonly known to most as "DJ Drixstar" or "ManaTred" from the music group, X9 Hommies.
Speaking from experience, he said things didn't always fall into place for him.
When asked about his life, Andrew said it wasn't always when he was growing up.
"I never dreamt of being an artist but what can I do when fate changed that mind-set. Like most families, life wasn't always sweet for me. We struggled to make ends meet especially when the school term started," he said.
His maternal grandfather, Eremasi Tamanisau, was a renowned composer back in the day and in order to preserve the family's musical roots, his mother strived to instill music into their lives.
"It was normal for us to sing constantly throughout the day and it became second nature for us." Unlike most artists, Bolakoro feels Fiji's music industry cannot support all upcoming artists, and this is why he aims to be well-versed with the media.
He is a part-time announcer at local radio station FM96 aside from freelancing as a graphic artist.
"I believe having vast knowledge of everything is very important especially in understanding the current trend we are heading towards," he said. He considers joining the X9 Hommies an eye-opening experience and for the struggling artist, this is an avenue to show the world what Fiji can offer.
"My passion for music and art is indescribable and this is why I am still standing on my own two feet to continue my grandfather's legacy," he said.
The backbone of all the songs he composed and sang was based on typical "Fijian humour".
He was inspired by the way people seemed to see the funny side of everyday issues in Fiji.
"Even though life is tough, most people I know eventually see the funny side of things," he said.
"I find that encouraging and through their experiences I compose songs that everyone can relate to."
With a thoughtful look he says he hopes all music artists in Fiji are given more opportunities or a chance to make singing a lucrative career.
"I hope they get record deals and are able to make singing a profession that actually brings in a lot of money," he said.
Some well-known songs he composed include: Lasutaka mixed tape, Dongs chika wahwah mixed tape, Yaste mixed tape and his latest original Au galili.
A true believer in the values of a family, Bolakoro says nothing is ever certain in life except the love and support from those closest to you.