Hip hop artist Diggy Dupé shares the songs he plays to make sure the weekend is perfectly in order.

Diggy Dupé knows he’s been “M.I.A for the longest”, which means the upcoming Pacific Music Awards ceremony on August 29 will be a chance to reconnect with the game (and maybe get a bit horsey, too). Behind Shepherd’s Reign and Aaradhna, Dupé is one of the most nominated artists of the night, in the Best Pacific Song, Best Pacific Male Artist, Best Pacific Hip Hop Artist and Best Pacific Music Video categories. It’s a recognition he calls a “blessing.”

Of the overwhelming amount of Pasifika talent here in Aotearoa, Dupé says he’s mostly looking forward to catching up with SWIDT’s SPYCC at the awards ceremony. “Can’t wait to horse it on him,” he says. “Skee. Nah but actually, can’t wait to see all my peers.” If “hometown hero” Che Fu shows up, that’s an added bonus.

In the lead-up to the ceremony, Dupé is living by his tried-and-true weekend schedule – “run on Saturday, feaus [chores] on Sunday” – though it’s harder when you’re an adult who only has themselves for motivation. “Every Islander kid growing up knows when you hear certain songs being played, it’s time to get up and start cleaning,” he says. “These are my songs that help me get through my weekend chores.”

Bitty McClean – ‘It Keeps Rainin”

This song reminds me of my Uncle Mike coming up the driveway. You could hear him coming a mile away. 

Dr. Dre – ‘Let Me Ride’

That Parliament groove is undeniable. 

DeBarge – ‘I Like It’ 

Self explanatory, really.

Lynda Dawn – ‘Move’ 

I feel like she did one solid EP and then dipped; I wish she made more music.

Lucy Pearl ft. Snoop Dogg and Q Tip – ‘You’ 

Backyard cookout type shit. Freshly mowed lawns, Grey Lynn butchers sosisi’s (pause) on the Weber, oua.

Mista – ‘Blackberry Molasses’

This helps me get through the trenches when I’m out on the road. IYKYK.

Lupe Fiasco – ‘No.1 Headband’

I came across this Samurai project last weekend. Lupe’s still got it for sure, but all the Kendrick slander needs to stop.

All Black Alby – ‘Cruizin (Like Will Flip)’

I was blessed enough to meet Alby and his boys at a gig Rizzy put on this year. They are real ones with good energy. They make real good music, too. 

Sister Sledge – ‘He’s The Greatest Dancer’

I’m learning how to [roller] skate, straight up. Give me 376 days, and I’ll be like Sweetness.

Eric B. & Rakim – ‘Don’t Sweat The Technique’

Helps with vacuuming.