Interview: Trevor Dering of Fiji Blue Opens Up About ‘Hug’ and the Experiences That Influenced His Music - Atwood Magazine

      From early Guitar Hero experiences to real-life inspired songs, Trevor Dering – known as Fiji Blue – reveals the inspirations behind his newest EP, ‘Hug.’

      Trevor Dering has made significant strides since he began playing classic rock on Guitar Hero. At just 12 years old, with a plastic guitar in hand and the enthusiasm of a young fan discovering bands like Aerosmith and AC/DC, he developed a passion for music and the emotions it can stir. While the game taught him the basics, it was during lengthy car rides with his dad, with the Eagles’ music filling the air, that he recognized the emotional depth of music. By his mid-teens, he had pinpointed that feeling and associated it with specific sounds.

      “I recall my mom playing ‘Atmosphere’ by John Mayer when I was 15 – it really resonated with me,” Dering shares. “I became captivated by his songwriting, and seeing his guitar skills felt like a perfect combination.” He adds, “One of my favorite tracks to play on Guitar Hero was ‘Pride and Joy’ by Stevie Ray Vaughan, who is also one of John Mayer’s influences – there’s even a Stevie Ray Vaughan tattoo on Mayer. It’s amazing when your idols appreciate the same artists.”

      These early influences paved the way for a career marked by creative development and personal trials. Dering, who goes by Fiji Blue, has often been labeled a “bittersweet optimist,” a tag that doesn’t fully encapsulate the nuances of his work. After years of refining his skills through songwriting and education, including studying at Berklee College of Music, he cultivated a sound that resonates deeply with listeners.

      This growth is reflected in his latest EP, Hug, which follows his 2024 debut album, Glide. In recent years, Dering’s life has taken unexpected turns, particularly with his wife Natasha – his greatest inspiration – being diagnosed with brain cancer, an experience that has notably influenced his songwriting.

      “There have certainly been many sorrowful moments lately,” he admits. “I want to express hope and create uplifting songs, but that’s often a challenge. With this upcoming project, I’ve found a sweet spot; it’s the first real opportunity I’ve had to openly share my thoughts following everything that has happened, aiming for utmost honesty.”

      The title track of the EP is a tribute to Natasha’s affection for hugs, with poignant lyrics like, “I’m never letting go when I see you again.” Another song, “Baby Blue,” serves as his last release for 2025 – a livelier tune meant to conclude a year filled with deeply personal pieces.

      Operating on just a few hours of sleep and a chilled coffee, the LA-based indie pop singer-songwriter discusses his next project with a palpable excitement that’s more than just due to caffeine. Dering spoke with Atwood about the music that has influenced him, the challenges he's faced, and the songs that guide him forward.

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      :: Stream/purchase Hug here ::

      :: Connect with Fiji Blue here ::

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      Stream: “Hug” – Fiji Blue

      Fiji Blue’s Trevor Dering © Joe Hunt

      A CONVERSATION WITH TREVOR DERING

      Atwood Magazine: I’ve read about your long drives with your dad listening to classic rock. Was there a particular drive or moment that ignited your passion for music?

      Trevor Dering: Absolutely. My stepdad raised me, and we would take drives all the time. He adored the Eagles and classic rock as a whole. His love for music was evident, and he often sang along. I don’t have a singular memory that stands out – it’s more a collection of experiences with him. My family wasn’t particularly musical otherwise, but that’s where my passion began.

      Did you gravitate towards classic rock as a child, or did that come later?

      Trevor Dering: It was definitely around me growing up. I also played a lot of Guitar Hero, which was primarily classic rock. That really drew me in. I became infatuated with bands like Aerosmith and AC/DC – just a 12-year-old with longer hair than he needed, wanting to rock out.

      How did your peers react to that at school?

      Trevor Dering: Honestly, I attempted to join the band and that’s how I first fell in love with music. That was my starting point.

      Do you still play Guitar Hero?

      Trevor Dering: I feel like I should pick it up again. [laughs]

      Fiji Blue’s Trevor Dering © Joe Hunt

      Do you still go on drives for inspiration when writing?

      Trevor Dering: I do! Lately, I find myself surrounded by music so much that sometimes silence feels quite peaceful. But I’m getting back to it. I often listen to my own music to gain a different perspective, but when I can, I also enjoy playing older tracks. Being immersed in music tends

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