Concert Review: Common Kings Bring More Than Reggae Rock to the LA County Fair

On May 23, 2026, Common Kings, the Orange County based reggae rock band with Pacific Island roots, took the stage at the LA County Fair in Pomona, California. Opening the evening was Australian-born singer-songwriter Sammy Johnson, whose music draws from his Māori and Polynesian roots. Johnson was well received by the crowd. Between songs, he kept people laughing and engaged with his humor, holding the audience's attention from start to finish.

When Common Kings took the stage, the crowd was already with them. A slow build was not needed. From the beginning of the set, audience members were singing along, dancing, and responding to the music. Fans of all ages filled the fairgrounds, with kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between joining in throughout the night.

A Night of Familiar Songs

Photographing from the stage, the sound remained clear and balanced throughout the evening, allowing both the band's musicianship and stage presence to come through. The set featured songs from across their catalog, including "Lost in Paradise," "There I Go," "24/7," "Today's a New Day," and "Wade in Your Water." They also performed a cover of Dr. Dre's "The Next Episode." During the song, another person, who appeared to be a family member, joined them on stage and danced along with the performance.

The production throughout the evening supported the performance without overshadowing it. Large LED screens and carefully timed lighting enhanced key moments while keeping the focus on the music and the people on stage.

When the Crowd Became Part of the Show

One moment came when Jr. King encouraged the audience to join in by raising their lights into the air. Looking across the fairgrounds, what started as individual lights became a sea of lights moving together as the crowd sang along. It was a simple moment, but one that reflected the connection between the band and their audience.

That sense of connection remained visible throughout the night. Sammy Johnson later returned to the stage during Common Kings' set, and at one point a Hawaiian flag was carried across the stage. They were small moments, but they reflected the relationships and cultural ties that run through the music.

A Tribute to Fiji

One of the evening’s most meaningful moments came during Common Kings’ tribute to George “Fiji” Veikoso, who passed away in July 2025 at the age of 55. As LED screens displayed his photograph, no introduction was needed. Fiji, the Grammy nominated Polynesian reggae artist and co writer of the Baywatch Hawaii theme song, was a cultural icon whose influence helped shape generations of island musicians. Common Kings’ respect for him was unmistakable, and the crowd’s response reflected the impact Fiji had on island music fans and the artists who grew up listening to him.

More Than a Concert

Through the music, the tribute to Fiji, and the connection between artists and audience, the evening reflected the sense of community that continues to define island music culture.