CHAII - DRIPPIN IN GOLD

Persian-New Zealand artist, songwriter and producer CHAII returns with her commanding new single and video, “Drippin In Gold” - out now via Particle Recordings & BMG

CHAII’s first release since her acclaimed 2021 EP, Pineapple Pizza, “Drippin In Gold” delivers a powerful statement to her success, hustle and cultural pride. Produced by Frank Keys, who also collaborated with CHAII on her previous releases ‘Lightswitch’ EP & ‘Pineapple Pizza’ EP.

The single's accompanying music video sees nostalgic elements of Iranian culture intertwined with cherished childhood memories. Shot in Los Angeles - a city renowned for its thriving expat Iranian community - the clip pays homage to CHAII's motherland, Iran, and captures the essence of her personal story. With the inclusion of a Pakyan - a classic Persian car- cruising towards a golden mansion, CHAII looks towards a future of greatness whilst showcasing the significance of how her roots have played such an important part in her journey there.

Speaking to “Drippin In Gold”, CHAII notes: "Drippin in Gold” is all about staying laser-focused on your dreams no matter what obstacles come your way. It's a constant reminder to never settle for anything less and to hustle relentlessly towards your goals. Embrace your culture, shine like gold!”

On bringing the video to life, CHAII shares, "Filming this music video in Los Angeles has been an incredibly personal and transformative experience for me. I wanted to pay homage to my Iranian heritage and capture the essence of my childhood memories. The streets and landscapes of LA stirred up nostalgic feelings of my motherland, I wanted to share that part of my life." 

A multi-faceted creative and a genre-bending musician, CHAII’s discography has traversed the realms of R&B, hip-hop, electronica and more. Her last release, 2021’s Pineapple Pizza EP, premiered to global audiences on Fortnite, and garnered local praise from Junkee, Purple Sneakers, Cool Accidents, 10 Magazine and AUD$ - alongside on-air support from SRN, triple j, FBi, 2SER, RRR and more. CHAII’s meteoric ascent began with the release of her 2020 debut EP, Lightswitch. A project that served as an introduction to CHAII’s inimitable creative vision, Lightswitch saw CHAII invited to perform at SXSW and be named Spotify’s first New Zealand based RADAR artist. In elevating her artistic universe, CHAII has soundtracked a Fendi campaign, seen a nomination in New Zealand’s 2022 Rolling Stone Awards, and has won sync placements across gaming and on-screen platforms - from FIFA 2021, Tony Hawk and EA Sports’ F1 22, to Ms. Marvel, Netflix’s Old Guard, Wellmania and Inventing Anna and a European campaign for car maker KIA.

Coming up, CHAII is set to perform at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Fan Zone in Auckland, New Zealand; an appearance that arrives alongside the news of CHAII’s music being approved for broadcast usage throughout the tournament.

Return to the voltaic world of CHAII today on “Drippin in Gold”, ahead of more to come very soon. 

Rodney Fisher and The Response present 'Keeping Up Appearances’ single & video

Rodney Fisher is delighted to announce the release of his second single created with The Response, ‘Keeping Up Appearances (feat. Terrible Sons)’ out July 21st, 2023. The single follows ‘ICU,’ released earlier this year.

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ features the talented Matt Barus (Terrible Sons) and explores feelings of being misunderstood, particularly as people pursuing something creative in a public way.

“Most of the album was complete, and I had been talking with Matt about the idea of writing something together,” says Fisher. “We got talking about life and our experiences of people close to us being misunderstood, particularly artists. That theme is prevalent in ‘Keeping Up Appearances.’ Many lyrics were lifted straight from the text conversation. The track evolved from voice memo to voice memo, with everyone contributing.”

The track is accompanied by a beautiful music video, shot at Te Atatu Peninsula and directed by Mike Braid.

“The music video was filmed at a spot where I go to clear my head and try to hit the reset button,” says Fisher. “I had been craving the feeling of painting somewhere without constraints. Art and music have become an extension of my everyday life, as I have recognized its value for well-being and how much of my identity is wrapped up in it. The cobalt blue paint marks in the video are taken from my notebook when I draw marks above words to help me understand, kind of like a musical shorthand. The blue relates to the color scheme in Facebook Messenger, where so much of the communication around this project (both song and video) has been from start to finish. It was an intentional decision to work and evolve the treatment as a way to continue the timeline of the writing process into the visuals.”

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ is the second track off the Goodshirt frontman’s upcoming album with The Response, Art School Dropout, and clearly holds a special place in his heart.

“This song feels special to me as it represents getting to know some dear friends through the most natural language we speak - music,” says Fisher. “The track explores the dangerous line of comparing yourself to other people and falling into depression, but also conveys a sense of picking yourself up and keeping going.”

‘Keeping Up Appearances’ releases Friday July 21st via Aotearoa New Zealand indie music label Bigpop Records.

Skindred - L.O.V.E (Smile Please)’

A pop-reggae smash single featuring a skankin’ beat, parping horns, a singalong chorus and Caribbean-by-way-of-Newport vibes from irrepressible frontman Benji Webbe. ‘L.O.V.E (Smile Please)’ is the PERFECT soundtrack for party-lovers, festival-goers, gym-bunnies, beach-bums, tree-huggers, and all round feel-good-people having celebrations across the nations.

UK’s Skindred have somehow managed to appear at the metal Download festival and top the US reggae charts. This curious achievement has been on the back of "ragga metal", an odd hybrid of reggae, rock, soul, hip-hop and power-pop. It's all fronted by Benji Webbe, who sings in a Jamaican accent in the way only a Welsh rasta can.

Skindred are no strangers to performing live as this years sees them performing at Glastonbury Festival and then headlining with US rockers Kiss on a UK nationwide tour. Skindred are then focusing their sights firmly on New Zealand and are planning to tour down under this coming summer.

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Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) & NZ Music Commission Present: GOING GLOBAL™ MUSIC SUMMIT 2023

Bringing the Global Music Industry to Aotearoa / New Zealand to Educate, Discover & Connect with the incredible musical talent of Aotearoa - First Speakers Announced!

Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) and the NZ Music Commission are excited to present the 2023 version of the prestigious annual extravaganza, the GOING GLOBAL™ MUSIC SUMMIT.

Prepare yourselves for two days of unparalleled musical enlightenment at the iconic Roundhead Studios in Auckland. This auditory adventure promises to bestow upon Aotearoa's musicians and industry titans an immersive experience, igniting inspiration and establishing connections with the global music sphere. For those seeking the next phase of their artistic odyssey, this summit stands as the gateway to the world stage.

Pippa Ryan-Kidd, Chairperson of Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ), exclaimed “Our aim with Going Global is to propel our local artists further along their illustrious careers and guide them towards international markets. Past Going Global conferences have led to our artists signing with international record labels, music licensing deals, being booked for both US and European Festivals, and showcases at SXSW (US) and The Great Escape (UK). Looking outward, Going Global has also been directly responsible for connecting music production co-writes and collaborations between delegates from Singapore and Chile.

If you feel these outcomes match your goals, then this is the conference for you! We have Festival bookers, Programme Directors, Record Labels and many other Industry professionals attending. We would love our independent New Zealand Artists to come and connect with them!”

IMNZ is thrilled to unveil the first four speakers for the highly anticipated 2023 Going Global Music Summit. Prepare to be dazzled by the brilliance of Adam Ryan, the Great Escape Programmer (UK) and  Dev Sherlock, the remarkable Senior Music Programmer from SXSW (USA). These two distinguished individuals, hailing from opposite ends of the globe, return to Going Global having previously (2022) been very generous with their time and abundance of knowledge and experience that is simply unparalleled. Brace yourselves for their captivating insights and profound expertise, as they guide our attendees towards a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

But wait, there's more! In a bid not to be outshined by this dynamic duo, we proudly present the real MVP’s  (that's Most Valued Players, for the uninitiated): 

Jackie Palazzolo, the brilliant Music Supervisor from Riot Games (USA) contributes to various projects for Riot’s flagship games League of Legends & Valorant. Previously, Jackie led the Music Supervision and Licensing team at VICE media, working across numerous Emmy-nominated and award-winning series & productions.  

Hallie Anderson, is the extraordinary force behind Rareform PR (USA), an artist services hub founded by three female music industry veterans who work directly with artists, managers, distribution companies and labels both in the U.S. and internationally. Offering marketing campaigns, release strategies, digital marketing and paid ad solutions Rareform clients have included Faye Webster, Genesis Owusu, Jungle Giants, Obongjayar, Ocean Alley, Interscope, Lookout Kid Management, and September Management.

Mark your calendars, folks, because the 2023 Going Global Music Summit is shaping up to be an unmissable event. Stay tuned as IMNZ unveils an illustrious lineup of international representatives and experts in the fields of music A&R, booking, licensing, management, marketing, promotion, and publishing in the weeks to come.!

Simultaneously, alongside the summit, IMNZ presents the Going Global Presents Showcase, a vibrant spectacle where a handpicked lineup of local artists will grace the stages of inner-city connected venues: Whammy!, Wine Cellar, and Whammy Backroom. The Going Global Presents Showcase has undergone a tremendous transformation, evolving into a two-night extravaganza of mind-blowing musical prowess. Picture this: three stages set ablaze by a relentless onslaught of exhilarating 20-minute sets that will leave you breathless, begging for more. And the best part? All this auditory ecstasy can be yours over two nights for the tiny ticket price of just $30 - or $20 for each night! Whoa, baby! 

We extend a heartfelt invitation to all our international industry guests and the general public to witness the sheer brilliance of Aotearoa's most extraordinary artists, poised to conquer the world. Historical evidence attests that previous showcases have acted as launchpads for the meteoric rise of some of New Zealand's most celebrated success stories over the past decade. Past luminaries include Aldous Harding, Tami Neilson, Tiny Ruins, Troy Kingi, Sachi, Alien Weaponry, Fazerdaze, Beastwars and Nadia Reid.

Prepare yourselves, folks, for an unforgettable sonic feast that will reverberate through your souls. This is the pinnacle of musical excellence, the crescendo of creativity, and the catalyst for boundless dreams. The Going Global Presents Showcase is where legends are born, careers are ignited, and the world becomes a stage. So don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you reeling in sheer awe.

Dylan Pellett, General Manager of Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ), eagerly expressed, “We are elated to continue the momentum of our immensely successful past Going Global events, as we embark on a wild journey to unite New Zealand artists and industry with the global music community. Let us not underestimate the immeasurable worth of in-person encounters with industry luminaries, for they serve as the bedrock upon which enduring professional relationships are built. Achieving goals of such magnitude is made possible by learning and connecting with people with that knowledge, and that is precisely our goal with Going Global 2023.”

GOING GLOBAL MUSIC SUMMIT 2023 Friday 1st September / Saturday 2nd September Roundhead Studios, Auckland, New Zealand Tickets are on sale now at Eventbrite: https://GoingGlobal2023.eventbrite.co.nz 

Additionally,

GOING GLOBAL PRESENTS 2023 ARTIST SHOWCASES OPEN TO PUBLIC Friday 1st September / Saturday 2nd September Whammy, Wine Cellar, Whammy Backroom Auckland's K' Road. 

Tickets are available from 8:00 AM, 24th July at undertheradar.co.nz 

Will McClean to release 'DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE'

An Album Diving into the Depths of Vulnerability.

Prepare to embark on a soul-stirring musical journey as Wellington Hip-Hop artist Will McClean, announces the release of his album titled DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE.

Set for release on July 21st, this album is an exploration of vulnerability and growth, inviting listeners even further into the world through the lens of Will McClean, as he embraces the world around him and finds solace in the power of music.

The lead single MAN ON A MISSION was released in September '22 and is a deeply personal track that set the tone for the whole album, offering a glimpse into the journey that awaits.

On the lead single we hear McClean recount his realisation of the fragility of life from a young age, forced by the passing of his father. 

The second single + music video SEEM ALRIGHT was recently released on June 23rd, and is receiving praise from both new, and long-time listeners. With SEEM ALRIGHT, Will McClean continues to showcase his introspective lyrics and evocative melodies. Its laid back, yet fierce nature explores the importance of taking a moment to slow down and realise that when we stop stressing over the little things, the present moment does in fact, seem alright. SEEM ALRIGHT marks the first time Will McClean has received Spotify playlist placement on top playlists such as “New Music AUS/NZ” and “Jazz Rap”.

Will McClean produced the album alongside close collaborator Nikau Te Huki (Casual Healing), and it marks a shift in his step as he is spending more time, taking time to focus and create a cohesive body of work, rather than just writing the lyrics. Keyboard player Sam Hunter played a key role in turning the album sketches and ideas into reality.

In anticipation of the release of DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE, Will McClean has planned a captivating album roll-out that will immerse listernes in a multi-dimensional experience. The journey began with the two released music videos, each visually capturing the essence of the accompanying singles. These videos serve as a visual companion, deepening the emotional connection between the music and the artist as a whole. The combination of visual storytelling, intimate live performances + videos and interviews will undoubtedly create an immersive experience, solidifying Will McClean’s place as an artist to watch.

DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE is deeply rooted around vulnerability and family. The album features a poem at the end of LET GO, written and spoken by his Nana, which then leads into YESTERDAY which includes a heart wrenching voice memo of both grandparents when his Papa was ill. Will McClean’s mum closes the album with some beautiful words (that seem to make most cry), leaving faint laughter to fade into silence, finishing the album.

Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and lessons, Will McClean has crafted an album that is as cathartic as it is relatable. By fearlessly exploring the depths of vulnerability, they invite listeners to reflect on their own journey and find solace in the shared human experience.

"Music has always been a safe place for me, a place where I can truly be myself and express the full range of my emotions," says McClean. "With DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE, I wanted to create something that not only speaks to my own learnings and vulnerabilities, but also provides a space for others to find comfort and understanding. It's a reminder to take a moment, a deep breath, and embrace the beautiful hecticness of life."

DON'T FORGET TO BREATHE will be released on all available streaming platforms on

July 21st 2023.

Tipene 'Kupe'

Tipene’s ‘Kupe’ is more of an animated film than a music video. Funded by TMP it explores a new medium - flexing creative abilities given the context of the waiata being about exploration and discovery.

It features many subtle references - Kupe's anchor stone is in there, Uenuku (the pou), our navigation birds, poutiriao around Kupe and lots of beautiful nuances to honour our people as masters of the moana & whenua.

Directed by Anahera Parata, with key creatives from WHEKE FORTRESS (of Aroha Bridge popularity), the video was produced by Coco Solid (Jess Hansell) and lead animator Tokerau.

The track itself is an ode to KUPE the master navigator and Polynesian voyager. The video has a more abstract take on a futuristic Aotearoa; where there a turbo / street canoes and a cityscape of traditional statues and marae-turned mansions. Where the world view is naturally Maori, for this is Aotearoa our home and place of belonging. There are subtle easter eggs for the academic viewer (Kupe's anchor stone which is housed at Te Papa), various Polynesian nuances, and reference to our taonga being on display in museums.

At time code 01:36 the Welcome to the 'cook' islands sign is muted, it is Rarotonga not an island owned by Captain Cook.

At time code 02:00 our female character designs her pou (statue) , dismantling Cook's mana and replacing it with KUPE. Our hero and protagonist.

Ultimately this film is about Tino Rangatiratanga; it relates to Matariki as it is a reflection of the past whilst honouring the present and future ambitions. 

JULY MEMBERS ONLY ONLINE SESSION: Self Management

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa are pleased to announce their July Members Online Seminar is with Mel Parsons and Tana Tupa’i

SELF MANAGEMENT

Join two award winning self-managed artists, Mel Parsons and Tana Tupa’i (Tomorrow People), as they share their insights on how to navigate the music industry as independent artists.

Topics covered will include developing your own unique sound and brand, building a strong online presence, getting your music heard by the right people, negotiating deals and contracts, managing your finances, and staying motivated and focused.

This is a rare opportunity to learn from two artists who have achieved success on their own terms. Don't miss out!

Mel Parsons is an award-winning songwriter & touring artist, independent label owner and tour promoter. Parsons started Cape Road Recordings for the release of her first album in 2009, with four subsequent releases since and countless tours both domestically & internationally. She has built and maintains good relationships throughout all sectors of the music industry including a 7 year stint on the board of Independent Music NZ. Parsons brings perspective and experience as a working artist & small indie label owner to the conversation and is particularly passionate about advocating for and on behalf of her fellow artists. Parsons holds a Performing Arts degree (Popular Music) from the University of Auckland, and is based in Ōhinehou / Lyttelton. 

Tana Tupa’i is the co-founder, manager and keyboardist for platinum selling reggae band Tomorrow People.
Since 2010, the self-managed band have toured extensively in both New Zealand and overseas. They are mainstays to all the major festivals and their album releases have earned them multiple music awards,
platinum & gold certificates, and No 1 chart placings.
Tana received the MMF Award for Best Self-Managed Artist in 2018, and in 2019 he started the first ever Good Vibes Winter Festival NZ (arena tour). Tana also tours other bands around Aotearoa, and is a mentor to many in both the Pacific & Mainstream music industry. In June 2023 Tana was the Festival Director for Samoa's first ever major festival, Motherland Samoa Festival.
Tana also currently manages various other projects within the music industry and wider community, which involve promoting pacific excellence.

MMF AOTEAROA july MEMBERS ONLY SESSION

WITH mel parsons & tana tupa’i

Date: Tuesday 25 July

Time: 6pm – 7pm

RSVP: For MMF members only. RSVP to Rachel admin@mmf.co.nz.  Spaces are limited so RSVP is essential.

Due to the limited places please note if you RSVP and then fail to attend the session without notifying us, unfortunately you will not be eligible for future sessions

"Reiki Ruawai's 'PAPATUĀNUKU': Where Music, Culture and Environmental Consciousness Intersect"

Like a musical sorcerer, Reiki weaves an enchanting spell. “PAPATŪĀNUKU” emerges as a powerful musical creation, transcending the realm of mere song and standing as a profound testament to the deep-rooted love and reverence for our Earth Mother. This inspiring composition resonates with a timeless message, calling forth the next generation, our rangatahi, to rediscover their primal connections forged by the footsteps of our ancestors. It is a melodious narrative that carries the weight of cherished traditions and an unyielding devotion to the land, forging a compelling bond with today's listeners.

Under the deft hand of renowned producer Chris Faiumu from Fat Freddy's Drop, this captivating song infuses the venerable traditions and the earth's reverence with contemporary relevance, spinning them into a poignant narrative for today's audience.

Backed by the unwavering support of Te Mangai Paho, “PAPATŪĀNUKU” unveils the transformative power of music in bridging the chasms between the past, present, and future. It serves as an impassioned call to action, heightening our awareness of the critical importance of environmental stewardship.

In a time when music often seems ephemeral and detached, this exceptional track breaks through the noise, delving deep into the essence of humanity's relationship with nature. It transcends being a mere composition; it becomes a profound movement set to a captivating beat, ensuring that the wisdom of our forebears echoes loudly within the minds of the next generation. “PAPATŪĀNUKU” epitomises a legacy we must strive to uphold and pass on, resonating with an unwavering spirit of preservation and reverence for our Mother Earth.

Reiki Ruawai, a bona fide talent hailing from the vibrant West Coast of Raglan, takes centre stage with his mesmerising vocals and soul-infused melodies. His music embodies a mesmerising fusion of R&B, dance, and soul, with raw emotion and an infectious rhythm that strikes a chord deep within the heart. With “PAPATŪĀNUKU,” Reiki captures the essence of his artistry, delivering a sonic experience that is both irresistible and deeply resonant.