South Korean music is not all about K-pop! Newko, “The Chinga Style,” is a rapper, singer, lyricist, composer, and music producer with New Zealand and Korean heritage. He is the first Asian hip-hop artist to achieve success on New Zealand's mainstream hip-hop and R&B radio stations and Korean music site charts. Newko comes to the ALTBAYS Table Talk to chat with Ed Mikaere and Leo Magri about hip-hop culture and much more! Watch it here now!
Show 254 - Newko “The Chinga Style” (Rapper/Music Producer)
Welcome to Altbays Table Talk (featuring Ed Mikaere and Leo Magri)
Newko, also known as 'The Chinga Style,' is an exceptional rapper, singer, lyricist, composer, and music producer. He founded 64D Production in 2004 and established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry. Raised in West Auckland, New Zealand, Newko's stage name is derived from his New Zealand Korean heritage.
Notably, Newko is the first Asian hip-hop artist to achieve success on New Zealand's mainstream hip-hop and R&B radio stations and Korean music site charts. His influence extends beyond his solo career, as he has produced multiple artists from New Zealand, Korea, Japan, and the United States.
With diverse musical abilities, Newko proficiently plays drums, bass, piano, guitar, clarinet, and other instruments. His music style transcends genres, blending elements of hip-hop, rock, classical, punk, jazz, and more.
Music has been a core part of Newko's life from a young age, influenced by his musical family background. His father, a versatile musician skilled in various instruments, particularly guitar, has over 200 compositions to his credit. Newko received early guidance in music from his father, learning guitar and drums. Additionally, his mother, a professional opera singer, provided vocal training, and his sister, a pianist and composer with a master's degree in popular music and sound engineering from Auckland University, also played a significant role in his artistic development.
Newko's educational journey includes graduating from the New Zealand Music and Audio Institute (MAINZ) with a major in drums/vocals and studying popular music at Auckland University.
As an artist, Newko or 'The Chinga Style' made history with his debut EP album 'I'm Here' and hit track 'Let Me Show You' in 2010, becoming the first Asian New Zealander to reach the top 10 on music charts in South Korea. He continued to captivate audiences with his unique sound and production skills, releasing two more EP albums and four single albums.
His creativity extends beyond solo projects, as he produced several artists, including members of his crew, 64D. On November 25, 2022, he made a successful comeback with the dazzling single 'Light it,' featuring Mr.Sicc, and embarked on a successful single release tour across New Zealand.
As he gears up for the release of his upcoming EP album (April 24), Newko invites listeners on a journey through soundscapes that promise to be both groovy and profound.
ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people from Aotearoa to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together to grow and thrive.
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