Church & AP is a rap duo comprised of Elijah Manu (Church) and Albert Purcell (AP). Their single ‘Ready or Not’ blew up and lead to three nominations at the 2019 New Zealand Music Awards. The industry took notice and they’ve been playing sold-out shows, as well as opening for other big shows including SIX 60’s Second sold-out Western Springs show. They’ve done so much since that single, including releasing the debut album TEETH To rave reviews. Having recently released their new single ‘War Outside’ we knew we had to catch-up with them and see what they’ve got going on.
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CHECK OUT OUR LITTLE CATCH-UP WITH CHURCH BELOW:
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1. How did you initially get into creating music?
When I was 15, I used to bus all the way to Wellington so I could live with my cousin and record with producers I knew over there. Just laptops and Singstar mics back then. Plus this would only be during school holidays so I only had time like every 12 weeks. Eventually I met AP though and he introduced me to the studio we would end up creating Church & AP in.
2. Tell us about your inspirations & motivations?
I’m constantly inspired and motivated by those around me. My own circle keeps me grounded and wanting to push for more success.
3. What have you been up to in this lockdown and how has it affected you?
Not much. Lockdown seeped all the inspiration out of me for a while. But it also forced me down a rabbit hole of new film and music. Which ultimately informs my new work post lockdown.
4. What do you think of the NZ music scene?
We have a long way to go but we’re going in the right direction.
5. Where would you like to see yourself in a year’s time?
Overseas again.
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CHECK OUT THEIR NEW SINGLE ‘WAR OUTSIDE’ BELOW – THEY SUGGEST BLASTING IT WHILE CRUISING AORUND IN YOUR CAR AND WE COULDN’T AGREE MORE!
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