Bio

Approaching from the more conscious side of Hip-Hop, NZ born Lazrus is an experienced and charismatic MC with both local and international experience.

From breakdancing competitions in primary school and DJing at the age of 15, to performing live on stage with The Pharcyde in London and at Party in the Park (Leeds, England) to over 35,000 people – Lazrus has breathed Hip-Hop for two thirds of his life.

As an experienced songwriter, Lazrus was employed by an independent UK label to co-write songs for artists on their roster alongside US funk legend Menace (Parliament, Funkadelic, Whitney Houston). It was here that the window of opportunity arose to play other gigs including half-time at an FA Cup football match to a crowd of more that 12,000 people, and alongside groups like Blue, Gay Dad and The Streets at the aforementioned Party in the Park.

Recently returned after an eight-year musical hiatus in the UK, Lazrus arrived back in NZ in 2003 full of fresh ideas and a wealth of music and life experience.

The skills and understanding that Lazrus gained from his international sojourn proved valuable, as it wasn’t long after touching down in his homeland that Lazrus received funding for his debut single, the memorable and captivating, 'Scribble'. Produced by Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers, Super Furry Animals, The Lost Prophets), the track was also given the remix treatment by Chris Macro (Dubious Bros).

The video for 'Scribble', directed by Stephen Baker (Fish n Clips) gained support from key local media, television and radio and 'Scribble' was nominated for Best Solo Video at the 2004 Juice TV Awards. The single has also been licensed to a Warner Music Australian compilation entitled 'Street Beatz', cited for release early 2005.

Lazrus has now received a second single and video grant from NZ on Air for sophomore release 'Infinite Boxes'. "A song about love lost and found again", 'Infinite Boxes' will be serviced to radio in November, with a video delivered shortly after.

A diverse artist, Lazrus is a skilful performer whose influences come mostly from New York and Philadelphia based artists including The Pharcyde, The Roots, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Dead Prez, Slum Village, A Tribe Called Quest and early De La Soul, as well as the writings of authors like David Icke!

"My Music is about love, politics and the world around me... It’s just my philosophies"

Lazrus has performed and appeared on many shows including, Top of the Pops, C4, Juice TV, The Grey Lynn Park Festival and 2004's Big Day Out with Ned Roy, (who is also Lazrus' live DJ).