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Tell us how you first became involved in the music scene...
It was a hobby I maintained when I left school, and then I joined a random band for fun. Soon after I met Jess Chambers, who asked me to do a split gig with her for $200 (at the time, I didn’t know singing actually pays). This led to meeting another group of musicians who became like family and I have been working with them since 2006.
How do you describe street soul?
I wouldn’t have a clue. Uh, a melody in style you reckon? Others would say ‘representing yourself in a certain style of clothing’, which I found out means ‘swag’.
What is the story behind your track Kung Fu Grip?
This title became a joke. Two of the guys from the band were into martial arts, my family is part Asian and the movie Kung Fu Panda came out the same time we released the song. Coincidentally funny. The song is about represent yourself, being born to lead and learning not to follow others.
Your track with Sola Rosa has been a huge success. What other artists are you looking at collaborating with in the near future?
Beyond names, I’d be keen to work with a producer maybe Quincy Jones, possibly Jack White, Thom Yorke & Kanye. Throw in Busta Rhymes. I’m keen to write a Hip Hop anthem.
Having recently been at Sounds Aotearoa Summit, did you come away with some new ideas and projects?
After I came off stage I was told a few international delegates and festival organisers wanted to chat to me. Then I felt like it was probably the most comfortable I’ve been on stage and I knew I did my best work on stage. This gave me ideas to evolve, regardless of how small or big an audience is. I’ve always tried to be on my ‘A’ game and it’s opportunities like these that get you to the ‘A’ game if you play your ‘A’ game.
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