Kōrero: Hip hop

Not all hip hop was strident – Pauly Fuemana's 'How bizarre' (written with Alan Jansson) had gentle, slightly quizzical lyrics, mariachi trumpets and a music video that featured singer Sina Saipaia and blonde dancing girls having good clean fun. It was wildly popular in New Zealand and internationally. At the time of the song's release, Fuemana was still identified as a member of OMC (Ōtara Millionaires' Club), but was essentially a solo artist. OMC had included Fuemana's brother Phil. The group's American-influenced rap (with Pauly as MC) had seen them included on the Proud compilation, but by the time Pauly recorded 'How bizarre' his style was distinctly South Pacific.