Che Fu gets lifetime award, hints at new music via Dawn Raid tie-in

Che Fu will be honoured with a lifetime achievement award at next week's Pacific Music Awards. He's also finally got himself a new label, and promises some new music for 2014. His last new album was in 2005, so it's been a minute ( he has had a number of guest spots to keep up his recording profile tho). Bring it, Che!

Press release: "With Che-Fu's prolific career to be recognised at the 2014 Vodafone Pacific Music Awards this coming Thursday 8 May where he will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to New Zealand Pacific Music, the local legend is pleased to announce the next step in his career with new music to be released in 2014 via an exciting joint venture between Illion Records and Dawn Raid Entertainment.

As one of New Zealand's hip hop pioneers, Che-Fu's extensive career paved the way for many of today's New Zealand Pasifika, soul, hip hop and reggae performers. The award comes as a fitting acknowledgement to one of our Kiwi greats for the massive impact and influence he has had on shaping the scene, as well as adding further credence to his critically acclaimed back-catalogue.

But while Che-Fu's work may be enough to fill a lifetime, he's showing no signs of slowing down yet.

"Don't get it twisted, I'm still in my late 30's (just barely) lol. But, seriously, I'm very humbled and honoured to be a recipient of such a prestigious award. I am proud to represent this region of the Pacific, and its people, and I will to continue to do so through my music, and my actions. Oue tulou kia mutolu oti. Fari," he said.

With new singles and his fourth studio record tipped for 2014, as well as a number of shows in the works, fans can expect to hear Che's sweet soul croon across airwaves and stages alike- including joining the infamous line-up for Dawn Raid's 15 Year Anniversary Tour.

See Che-Fu live at the following venues as part of the Dawn Raid 15 Year Anniversary Tour [alongside Savage, Aaradhna, Deceptikonz, Sammy J, Monsta, BrownHill, DJ Peter Gunz and Brotha D], and stay tuned for further details on his up-coming releases.

Wellington - James Cabaret - Friday 23rd May
Tickets: on sale Friday 2 May via dashtickets.co.nz

Auckland - The Studio - Saturday 24th May
Tickets: on sale now via dashtickets.co.nz

Melbourne - The Espy - Thursday 29th May
Tickets: espy.com.au

Brisbane - Acacia Ridges Hotel - Friday 30th May
Tickets: moshtix.com.au

Sydney - OneWorld Bar - Saturday 31st May
Tickets: moshtix.com.au

More: Che Fu on how he wrote the classic hook for Chains in the toilet at the studio in 30 seconds, right before he sing it. Seriously.