In the mid-’90s, a song emerged from New Zealand that would go on to become one of the most recognizable and infectious pop tracks of the decade. “How Bizarre”, the breakout single from OMC (Otara Millionaires Club), was a genre-blending, feel-good anthem that took the world by storm. With its quirky lyrics, mariachi-style trumpets, and an unmistakable groove, the song became a cultural phenomenon—despite OMC never replicating its success.
The Rise of How Bizarre
Released in late 1995 in New Zealand (official international release followed in 1996), How Bizarre was the brainchild of Pauly Fuemana, the charismatic frontman of OMC, and Alan Jansson, the producer and co-writer behind the track. The song fused pop, hip-hop, R&B, and Polynesian influences, creating a sound that felt both fresh and globally accessible. Its catchy chorus, delivered in Fuemana’s laid-back, semi-spoken vocal style, made it instantly memorable.
The track quickly gained traction in New Zealand (No. 1 for five weeks) and Australia, topping the charts in both. Its international appeal was undeniable—How Bizarre reached No. 1 in at least five countries, including Canada, Ireland, Austria, and South Africa. In the United States, due to no commercial single release (a Billboard rule at the time), it wasn’t eligible for the Hot 100. However, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart for one week in 1997, showing that heavy radio play alone could make a song ubiquitous.
The Music Video and Cultural Impact
The music video for How Bizarre became iconic in its own right. Featuring Fuemana driving a 1968 Chevy Impala with a carefree vibe, tossing money, and exhaling fire, the visuals mirrored the song’s surreal, offbeat charm. The low-budget but stylish video was widely aired on MTV and international music channels, helping to propel the song’s popularity.
Though OMC was considered a one-hit wonder internationally, How Bizarre remained a defining track of the ’90s. It won Single of the Year at the 1996 New Zealand Music Awards, and decades later, it continues to resurface—most recently gaining viral traction on platforms like TikTok.
The Legacy of How Bizarre
Pauly Fuemana’s post-fame years were marked by financial and health difficulties, and he sadly passed away in 2010 at the age of 40. Yet his contribution to pop music history remains significant. How Bizarre stands out as a rare moment when a song from a small South Auckland act could capture the world’s attention without following the usual industry formula.
Whether you first heard it on a ’90s boombox or discovered it through a modern algorithm, How Bizarre remains a testament to the unexpected power of a truly unique song. It’s bizarre, it’s unforgettable—and it’s still making people smile.