Tapuarii (Laughlin) -- known as "Tapu" -- was born and raised on the beautiful island of Tahiti, in French Polynesia. As is typical for most Polynesians he grew in a strong music-oriented family. Tapu started singing and playing guitar at 13 years old; he recorded his first album at age 17. He lists musical influences of rock, reggae, and gospel mixed with the local drums and `ukulele.