NZ Music Month | Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa: The Best of the Bay
Saturday 01 May 2021
Back in 1997, a week-long salute to local music was launched, which then became what we now know as New Zealand Music Month in 2001, a month-long celebration that continues to propel local music and artists to the forefront of our minds each year.
Since conception, support and perception of local music may have changed and increased hugely but a focus on local talent is and will always be important.
Let’s dust off those iconic NZ Music Month tees and get out and buy local, stream local, buy merch, go to shows. It’s more important than ever we support the people who are creating and inspiring.
This month we have searched high and low for some of the best music coming from our backyard!
Ash Laforteza
Photo credit: Jordan Alexandra Reid
Ash Laforteza is an eclectic musician, creating fusions from genres such as soul, reggae, pop and a touch of psychedelics. Ash grew up in Gospel churches and did Kapahaka, hence the soul tones in their vocals. Representation is important to Ash, "Being a queer, POC and non-binary person, I feel it is a privilege to have a platform where I could make an impact."
Latest: They are currently working on their EP and perform gigs every week, keep up to date on Ash's socials.
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify
Georgia Lines
Georgia Lines releases her new single, ‘No One Knows’. It weaves together Georgia’s exquisite vocals with production that moves seamlessly between delicate moments and soaring, uplifting energy; making for a heartwarming and affirming track that leaves you wanting more. Georgia possesses a singer/songwriter heart, wrapped in a slick layer of sophisticated, R&B-tinged pop. The discovery of her vocal ability and song writing nous during her teenage years has sealed Georgia’s fate as one of New Zealand’s most promising new solo artists.
Latest: New single ‘No One Knows’, out now. On tour with LAIIKA and Tijay throughout April & May including a show at Totara Street in Tauranga on 28 April.
Facebook | Instagram | Website | YouTube | Spotify
Bluey Green
Now based in Mount Maunganui after an adventurous life of surf and travel, including a stint in Eastern Europe as part of a rock opera, Bluey Green navigates a bridge between the worlds of pop, surf rock and dance while staying true to his authentic and honest song writing. With a debut EP to come, there is lots to look forward to from this fresh new artist. With an upcoming EP, ’Roses’ is the second single to be released, following his summer anthem debut track ‘Morning Sunshine’.
Latest: New single + video ‘Roses,’ out now. Debut EP coming soon.
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify