Fat Freddy’s Drop founder and member Christopher Ta’aloga Faiumu is being remembered as a gracious person and ‘talismanic’ musician.

More widely known through his profession monikers ‘DJ Mu’ and ‘DJ Fitchie’, Faiumu was the creative force behind Fat Freddy’s Drop, one of Aotearoa’s most successful contemporary bands.

He died suddenly on July 16.

The seven-piece band from Wellington formed in 1999 and blended a wide range of music genres including: reggae, soul, jazz, rhythm and blues, rock, disco and house.

On Facebook Faiumu’s Fat Freddy’s band members paid tribute to their founder as the “star by which we navigated across the sea”.

“Our talismanic founding member, production maestro, selector and brother, Chris Ta’aloga Faiumu aka DJ MU aka Fitchie has unexpectedly passed away.

“This is a seismic shift in our world.

“Sending alofa to the Faiumu & Duckworth aiga, and to MU’s wider aiga of friends and fans worldwide. We ask please that you all respect everyone’s privacy during this difficult time. Hold tight.

Fat Freddy's Drop founder Chris Faiumu, who was more widely known as 'Mu' and DJ Fitchie. Photo / Supplied

“Tears flowed on receiving word that your journey had taken you to the heavens Chris … DJ MU … Fitchie. These were all the titles you were famously known by for your miraculous works to all music makers of Aotearoa and the whole world. 

“The star by which we navigated across the sea has gone and the crowns of flowers that adorned our heads are forever broken since you journeyed Brother. 

“Much love for the Faiumu and Duckworth families, as well as those family members who can only cry from afar. May your journey be blessed Chris.” 

Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith was sad to hear of Faiumu’s passing. 

“Fat Freddy’s Drop is loved by many New Zealanders. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.” 

Fat Freddy's Drop member 'Mu' (Chris Faiumu) and his daughter Mia, 6, arriving at the Aotea Centre in Auckland for the 2006 New Zealand Music Awards. Photo / Martin Sykes

Mark Vanilau and Solomon Smith of Christchurch arts space Th’Orchard acknowledged Faiumu’s passing on Facebook. 

“Most of you know a number of us had the privilege of recording Burn with Mu at the Freddy’s studio,” they said. 

“He was so lovely and he was a gracious host. Gone but definitely will never be forgotten. Biggest love uso.”