Samoan-New Zealand music legend and cultural icon, King Kapisi is a groundbreaking force in Aotearoa’s creative and community landscape. Born Bill Urale, he made history in 1999 as the first hip hop artist in New Zealand to win the prestigious Silver Scroll Award for Songwriter of the Year with his hit single Reverse Resistance, cementing his place as a pioneer of Pacific hip hop.
Rising to prominence in the late 1990s, King Kapisi quickly gained recognition not only for his lyrical skill but for his fusion of reggae, hip hop, and Pacific identity. His music career has seen him share stages with global powerhouses such as Metallica, Janet Jackson, The Black Eyed Peas, Public Enemy, UB40, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and The Beastie Boys. From Glastonbury to Australia, Asia, Europe, North America, and every major festival across Aotearoa, King Kapisi’s reach has been global while staying rooted in community.
His artistry has expanded into national campaigns for brands like ANZ, where he fronted initiatives with New Zealand Cricket, and Mastercard, further showcasing his creative versatility. Off stage, his impact has been just as powerful. Through nearly 30,000 acts of service across the country, he has devoted himself to uplifting youth and underserved communities.
In 2023, King Kapisi was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to music and community, a royal honour that recognised decades of advocacy, leadership, and inspiration. He continues this mahi through the Hoops And Life Awhi Charitable Trust, which supports rangatahi through basketball tournaments and unique experiences such as snow sports trips that make the inaccessible possible. He also proudly serves as ambassador for beloved Aotearoa brands including the BNZ Breakers and Turoa Ski Fields.
King Kapisi’s journey is one of rhythm, resilience, and relentless dedication to people and place; a true embodiment of Pacific pride and hip hop soul.
