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Herman Loto Sakaria, dubbed the 'Godfather of South Auckland hip hop', was an original member of pioneering hip hop group Otara Millionaires Club. His slinky R&B-infused single 'Don’t Be Late' featured on his first album as Ermehn, Samoans: Part II. The video draws on the trappings of 90s success: a beautiful trio lip-synching in a golden elevator, joined by a party crew with turntables, heavy jewellery and hands in the air, with Ermehn — sharp in denim and shades — rapping straight to camera. At one point the action moves and the MC is backlit in blue neon in front of now-demolished iconic Auckland venue the Palace Hotel.
All my peoples on the east side, all my peoples on the west side, all my brothers on the south side, all my sisters on the north side...– Excerpt from the opening refrain of 'Don't be Late' by Ermehn
Key Cast & Crew
Marc Swadel
Kane Massey
Produced by
Deepgrooves
Acknowledgements
Made with funding from NZ On Air
Categories
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