College days provided real start for Immigrantz

We profile Pasifika performers.

The Performer: The Immigrantz

Who is in the band: Sosh Kailahi and Rizz

Style of music: Poly-Hip Hop

Playing at 2pm Mainstage and 4pm Apra/NZ Music Commission stage.

Influences: Bob Marley, Dr Dre.


How did you get into music?

Me and my brother used to be in a cultural group when we were six, touring the North Island. At Kelston Boys in 1994, we formed the original Immigrantz crew and from there performed at hip hop gigs around Auckland, at Poet Cafe run by Rev Mua Strickson-Pua and now we are doing it with D1 Entertainment. It's a great opportunity.

Latest plans?

We just released Koko Luv on which we feature with the D1 Family. The video went to TV on February 14 on Coke New Releases, and the D1 Entertainment compilation is due for release at the end of March with the other artists, and we will be releasing a couple of singles this year.

We've got a lot of press lately and doing some TV interviews leading up to the release of the compilation.

Best recent gig?

Our best gig was the Rock On Niue Relief Concert last month, but mainly the Pacific Island Business Trust Dinner at TVNZ a couple of weeks back. It was really awesome.

Who do you admire among the current Pacific musicians?

I admire all Polynesian musicians like Che-Fu, Lole Usoalii, who shares her knowledge about the industry, and Dominic Leauga, our music producer. And Ray Columbus even though he's not Polynesian. Adeaze, cause we've been friends for a while trying to do our thing and now they are out there, that's where we want to be and it's starting to happen.

Is Pacific culture and music given enough recognition in New Zealand?

It's getting better in terms of a lot of music out there now in comparison to 10 to 15 years ago. The music industry is embracing it now. I know it was a lot harder for those PI artists I know who were in the industry back then, but if it wasn't for them we wouldn't be here today.

Music can break down the cultural barriers in this country if we really want to.

Pasifika Festival 2004
Saturday March 13, 9.00am - 6.00pm
Western Springs Lakeside and Stadium
Great North Rd, Auckland


Herald Feature: Pasifika Festival

Auckland City Pasifika Festival webpage