Onehunga-based producer SmokeyGotBeatz is proving that Aotearoa’s hip hop scene can hold its own on the world stage. Known for his hard-hitting drums and West Coast-inspired bounce, Smokey has built a reputation that stretches far beyond the Pacific. Producer for the “most electrifying” hip hop group in NZ - SWIDT, he's now making international noise through collaborations with Red Bull’s Spiral Freestyle

Red Bull Spiral Freestyle is becoming one of the flashpoints in today’s pop culture, gaining major traction online as artists use the platform to prove their lyrical skills through its one-take format. 

The latest artists to take spin on the Spiral are West Coast gangsta rappers YG, Mozzy, and Jay Rock - which Smokey produced. 

Smokey is no stranger to global collaborations, having produced on Jay Rock’s acclaimed 2015 album 90059 and YG’s latest single 2004.

The reaction from local artists has been very positive, artists such as David Dallas, Diggy Dupe, and Jess B who showed love on his instagram post featuring the video.

NZ fans have also shown love to this collab. 

“True proud moment,” one fan said.

“As soon as you hear the beat you know this is Smoke,” another said

“Smokey always been about it on the beats,” a third said

Watch YG Mozzy and Jay Rock’s Red Bull Spiral freestyle above.