10 Jan 2023

Che-Fu: Return of the Navigator - Part 2

From RNZ Music, 3:00 pm on 10 January 2023
Navigator

Photo: Supplied

When Che-Fu released his acclaimed album Navigator in 2001 it charted new territory for New Zealand Hip Hop. Its seamless blending of reggae, RnB and Hip Hop telling real life experiences reflected a truly Pacific soul.

When he started work on his second album from a room called the 'Chop Shop' at the back of his Auckland home, it was on the back of big changes in his life. By any metric, Che's solo debut 2b S.Pacific was a hit, cementing his status as one of the country's most beloved musicians.

He'd signed to a new record company that was anticipating big things from their new signee. And he was navigating the uncharted waters of young fatherhood.

This is the story of Che-Fu's Navigator, as told by the creators behind this Aotearoa classic.

Listen Here to Part 1

More to explore:

  • Essential New Zealand Albums: Che Fu - Navigator
  • Che Fu on 20 years of Navigator
  • Che & The Krates live in The Helen Young Studio 2001
  • Che Fu on his debut album 2b S.Pacific
  • Musical Chairs - Che Fu
  • Written and Produced by Sam Wicks and Presented by Mark Williams aka MC Slave