Musical Motivation: Sola Rosa

Sola Rosa is the brainchild of New Zealand musician, Andrew Spraggon. Creating an evolving infusion of funk, beats, electronic, jazz and soul has been the 20-plus year labour of love for this Auckland-based solo artist, who has produced a wealth of recordings since launching as an experimental recording project in 1999. With a new album, Chasing The Sun, out now, we caught up with him to find out what songs make him...



Smile

Roy Ayers – Everybody Loves The Sunshine

This song just reminds me of a summer’s day. It evokes happiness. A total classic!

Contemplate

Marvin Gaye – What’s Goin’ On

Still as relevant today as it was way back in the 70’s.

Cry

Kate Bush – The Man With The Child In His Eyes

Truth be told I don't know if a song has ever made me cry but this one is an extremely beautiful well crafted song.

Laugh

Mura Masa feat Slow Thai – Deal Wiv It

A modern mantra for the times. This song doesn’t take itself too seriously. Deal wiv it!

Want to work out

Channel Tres – Topdown

This tune has such an infectious vibe. Can’t say it would be my workout anthem but it's a banger!

Reminisce

Devo - Good Thing

I grew up with this band and have just been through a period of revisiting so I felt they were a good choice, great band, great songs!

Relax

Jackie Mittoo – Wall Street

The great Jackie Mittoo – Keyboard King at Studio One. A total classic.

Feel Determined

Public Enemy – By the Time I Get To Arizona

A band we need now more than ever!

Dance

Omar – Its So…

I thrashed this album back in the day. Still play this one a lot when DJing out. A dancefloor fav!