Scapegoat Mercy Release New Single ‘Bad Sales’ Feat. Adam Tukiri
Bad Sales is a self-produced track that aims to reintroduce Scapegoat Mercy to the NZ hip-hop scene with sharper focus and deeper connection to his Ōtepoti and Kuki Airani roots.
“It’s part of my upcoming EP, Southern Grass, a sequel to Northern Grass (2020), created back when I lived up north. I’m again working with Adam Tukiri (formerly Dharmarat), whose lyrical presence adds weight to the narrative.”
Bad Sales blends nostalgic boom bap samples with 808s and trap snares, landing somewhere between Ovrkast in the US and Reek0 in the UK. It speaks to regional identity, outsider energy, and the contradictions of online culture – equal parts social commentary and playful braggadocio. The beat’s lo-fi warmth contrasts the punch of the verses: “Buy me coz I’m brown / Confide your white guilt” sums up the satirical edge.
“I’m a full-time producer and part-time lyricist, and this EP marks a turning point in how I relate to the place I’m from. Bad Sales comes out on my birthday (August 20) – a Leo season drop that’s reflective, grounded, and hungry.”
Across all previous releases, Scapegoat Mercy produces, writes, and performs with an unmistakable voice – shaped by isolation, community, and the DIY ethos of Aotearoa’s alternative music scene.
