Coco Solid, born Jessica Hansell in 1979, is a New Zealand rapper, singer, songwriter, director, producer, and novelist of Māori, Pacific, and German heritage. After earning a master's degree from Victoria University of Wellington, she released early works including Rap N Roll (2003) and Denim & Leather (2004). Her music was recognized in top-10 album lists from 2005 to 2007 by publications such as The Sunday Star-Times. Her touring spanned the United States, Europe, and Tokyo, while her single “Crimefighters” (2007) topped the BNet charts. In March 2009, she received the APRA Professional Development Award. She later formed the electronic duo Parallel Dance Ensemble with producer Robin Hannibal, releasing a self-titled EP and the single “Shopping Cart” on March 25, 2011. She also created the animated television series Aroha Bridge and published her debut novel, How to Loiter in a Turf War, in May 2022.
