Brooke X Starce 'All You Need'
Brooke & Starce, previously known as The Oneill Twins are Maori Pakeha and grew up in Manurewa, South Auckland. They are globally known for their dancing but are no strangers to the music industry. The emerging R&B-hip hop duo are excited to announce the release of their debut Single ‘All You Need’. The song is easy listening, romantic and gets you in the feels!
Brooke & Starce, previously known as The Oneill Twins are Maori Pakeha and grew up in Manurewa, South Auckland. They are globally known for their dancing but are no strangers to the music industry. The emerging R&B-hip hop duo are excited to announce the release of their debut Single ‘All You Need’. The song is easy listening, romantic and gets you in the feels!
Brooke & Starce wrote "All You Need" after Starce was inspired to play the guitar. Starce covered the production while Brooke focused on the songwriting, this being their usual creative process. 1 year later, the twins decided to revisit the song but invited Singer, Song writer Lavina Williams into their session to help with vocal arrangement and counter melodies. "We were at a stand still and couldn't seem to finish the song, it wasn't until Lavina totally upgraded the song that we could finally say, It's finished". The very last touch was having Chris Chetland from Kog studio add his spice as he mastered the track.
Over the last few years, the girls have honed their skills in music production, mixing, singing & songwriting and are proud to be pursuing their music career as Independent Artists. They say "this is only a taste of what's to come".
Trilingual Kids Music EP, “Kōwhai: Kōrero Mai” featuring Suzy Cato, releasing September
A very special EP, Kōwhai: Kōrero Mai, from Loopy Tunes Music, made in collaboration with Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ, featuring NZ Children's Music royalty, Suzy Cato, with the support of New Zealand on Air Music, will be launching 8 September, 2023.
A very special EP, Kōwhai: Kōrero Mai, from Loopy Tunes Music, made in collaboration with Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ, featuring NZ Children's Music royalty, Suzy Cato, with the support of New Zealand on Air Music, will be launching 8 September, 2023.
Kōwhai: Kōrero Mai is a fun and interactive set of four trilingual waiata, featuring English and te reo Māori lyrics, and NZ Sign Language in the accompanying music videos.
The first singles "Kia Ora E Hoa", "Māori Animal Alphabet" and "Toro Like A Kākiroa" will be released August 18, 25 and September 1, respectively. "Māori Vowels", the final single, will be released on the same day the full EP is launched, on September 8. This will also be the day that the three trilingual music videos, produced by the team at Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ, will be released on TuriTV and YouTube.
This EP has been created for preschool and primary school music lovers and their whānau. “We wrote these songs for 4-8 year olds in mind because they are learning to read, engage, and embrace, te reo Māori in their school setting, so we wanted this to complement what they are already learning” shares Siu Williams-Lemi, from the musical sister duo, Loopy Tunes.
“We created this EP to encourage the use of te reo Māori basics, in a fun and interactive way!” adds Loopy Tunes co-founder, Leah Williams-Partington.
“A key thing about learning te reo Māori is mastering the vowels, so we are constantly telling people, ‘When you're starting out, focus on those vowels, master them, and you’ll be speaking beautifully in no time!’” encourages the duo. “We hope people find these songs useful and fun to sing along to.”
Suzy Cato shares her part in the project. “I approached Siu & Leah, earlier in the year, about joining with them to create an echo song incorporating te reo Māori” says Suzy. “Both Siu and Leah were very open to the opportunity and happened to be in the midst of creating an EP of songs about learning Māori. They invited me to join them on the rest of the EP and immersed me in their creative process, completely, which was wonderful!”
“From that initial idea, to shared documents online and melodies sung through the phone and recorded on smart devices; to recording in Siu’s studio, filming the music videos with the Ko Taku Reo multimedia team, and preparing for the launch parties – Siu and Leah have been wonderful to work and play with, and I can’t wait for these songs to be out in the world and enjoyed by tamariki everywhere.”
Loopy Tunes worked with Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ to create music videos in NZ Sign Language (NZSL), starring three amazing tamariki turi to help make these songs more widely inclusive and accessible. “Providing the music videos is an added bonus that enables a trilingual resource that can be enjoyed by so many more people,” share Siu and Leah.
"This collaboration offers us a remarkable chance to create resources that will captivate our learners,” says Ko Taku Reo Acting Executive Principal, Dr Denise Powell. “By combining music with NZSL, we are able to make a fun and enjoyable experience for all Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Furthermore, these resources will also serve as valuable tools for our stakeholders, helping them foster inclusivity and understanding in their communities."
This is the first project of its kind and an exciting collaboration for Aotearoa Children’s Music, showcasing the three official languages of New Zealand. “We are excited about the potential impact this project can have in promoting early language access in environments where tamariki learn alongside their families and whānau,” say Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ.“Through these collaborative videos, we also hope to inspire and empower educators to create inclusive learning environments and foster a greater appreciation for NZSL.”
Working in this new space did provide some challenges. “Something that has come up in the project is that there are some words where there isn’t a Māori sign for it yet, for example, arewhana|elephant,” share Siu and Leah. “In the ‘Māori Animal Alphabet’ song, we repeat the word elephant three times - once in Māori, followed by echoes of the word in Māori and then English. Because there isn’t a sign for the word ‘arewhana’, a solution was created using images of the animals, having the kids point, and then finishing with the NZSL sign for elephant.”
Loopy Tunes also worked closely with Māori translator, Kaycee Soutar. “Even though these are simple bilingual waiata, we knew it was important to ensure that we were using the kupu in the right way and using the right structures. Kaycee was awesome to work with and was always open to discussing how we could simplify things, while also ensuring that we weren’t taking away from the language,” explains Siu.
This is the third album being added to the Loopy Tunes "Rainbow" Collection of children's music, following their 2019 debut album "Kākāriki: Simply Us", and bilingual (Māori and Tongan) Christmas album “Whero: Kirihimete|Kilisimasi", released last year. "We chose 'Kōwhai' for this EP because we wanted it to be like a ray of sunshine in people's reo Māori journey, supporting them to 'Kōrero Mai'!” shares Siu.
Loopy Tunes and Suzy will perform four ticketed shows as part of a double EP launch on Friday, 8 September, in Christchurch, and then Saturday, 9 September, in Auckland, to celebrate the release of Kōwhai: Kōrero Mai.
Christchurch EP Launch - 8 September, at Tūranga Tautoru|TSB Space
9.30am and 11am shows - tickets from $3-$10pp, available through Humanitix
Afternoon shows at two local schools
Auckland EP Launch - 9 September, at Te Manawa Community Hub Auditorium and Te Atatū Peninsula Community Centre
JUJULIPPS presents ‘Airplane Mode' single & video
The track fuses African rhythms and energetic horn melodies and showcases a new sound for Jujulipps as she seamlessly intertwines English and Swahili lyrics. A rebellion against hustle culture and the relentless pressure to be available 24/7, it’s as if the world has been begging for a track like this.
"The ultimate Afrobeat switch-off anthem"
Jujulipps, the über talented and larger than life Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland, New Zealand) based hip-hop artist, is back!
On August 18, 2023, her latest single and music video ‘Airplane Mode’ will be released to the world, described by the artist as “the ultimate Afrobeat switch off anthem.” The track fuses African rhythms and energetic horn melodies and showcases a new sound for Jujulipps as she seamlessly intertwines English and Swahili lyrics. A rebellion against hustle culture and the relentless pressure to be available 24/7, it’s as if the world has been begging for a track like this.
Much like the artist, ‘Airplane Mode’ is effortlessly cool and driven along by an infectious beat. “It’s a hold-my-bag moment,” says Jujulipps. “A hold-my-worries-while-I-go-and-dance-like-there's-no-tomorrow-for-the-next-2:26-minutes moment.” Honestly, count us in.
The music video (directed by the talented Ezra Simons, alongside assistant director Oscar Keys from Sunbed Films) bursts with life and fun in a way that is totally hypnotising.
The ‘Airplane Mode’ video pays homage to the iconic South African musical and film Sarafina (1992), evoking a sense of nostalgia and cultural heritage for Jujulipps. The opening scene, reminiscent of the beloved motion picture, showcases Jujulipps in her school uniform, providing a heartfelt nod to the cherished memories that shaped her childhood.
“I wanted the music video to show parts of home and the girl I am now with my friends and the people that mean the most to me. I wanted to be dressed in familiar African attire and in the clothes I wear everyday." The beautiful dresses were made by the talented Fiona Tariro Chimwayange at Rivylle Clothing.
Singing lines such as "you want to stress me, please don't jealous me," Jujulipps taps into the universal experiences of African kids, echoing the phrases they hear in music, movies and their peers. The intention behind each shot and each verse makes it abundantly clear that the lush visuals perfectly compliment Jujulipps’ artistry, making the whole project incredibly special to witness.
‘Airplane Mode’ is produced by Abraham Kunin, co-written by Takunda Muzondiwa, Abraham Kunin, Tom Scott, with Joost Langeveld on bass, Thabani Gapara on saxophone, and mixed by Nick Krill.
‘Airplane Mode’ offers a sneak peek into Jujulipps’ upcoming EP Get That Shot. The track showcases a different style and sound giving listeners a taste of the diverse sonic exploration Jujulipps offers. So sit back, relax and enjoy the latest from Jujulipps. You deserve it.
New Single Are you in love by InDuna
The Afro-Kiwi artist InDuna combines South African Kwaito and Pop music to make a catchy Afro-Dance-Pop song called "Are You in Love." He takes inspiration from his South African heritage and adds modern pop and House music elements, resulting in a vibrant track that will connect with a wide range of listeners.
InDuna's new track, 'Are You in Love,' follows the success of "Dreams," which hit No. 6 on NZ Singles Charts.
The Afro-Kiwi artist InDuna combines South African Kwaito and Pop music to make a catchy Afro-Dance-Pop song called "Are You in Love." He takes inspiration from his South African heritage and adds modern pop and House music elements, resulting in a vibrant track that will connect with a wide range of listeners.
Are You in Love" encapsulates the universal experience of meeting someone for the first time and sharing an immediate connection, while uncertain about the reciprocity of feelings. The song's excitement and uncertainty of new love, making it relatable to anyone who has felt the thrill of a budding romance.
For InDuna, the creation of "Are You in Love" was a serendipitous journey. The song originated from a moment of pure inspiration when he sat at the piano, playing a few notes, and the lyrics effortlessly poured out. Within just 30 minutes, the initial demo of the song was complete. Although it received praise from his musical peers, InDuna decided to set it aside temporarily.
Over a year later, InDuna rediscovered the demo and was instantly reminded of its potential. Determined to see it through, he embarked on the production process, breathing life into the song. To add the finishing touches, InDuna joined forces with Jpec, and through three collaborative sessions, "Are You in Love" emerged as a vibrant and irresistible track that speaks to the heart of every listener.
LITTLE HEARTS SHINE THE BRIGHTEST ON CLAUDIA ROBIN GUNN'S NEW CHILDREN'S ALBUM FIREFLY
2023 Tui Best Children’s Artist nominee and self managed artist Claudia Robin Gunn is excited to announce pre-orders are open for the limited edition vinyl run of her 6th children’s album Firefly, produced by Grammy winner Dean Jones (NY) and created with help from NZ On Air Music.
2023 Tui Best Children’s Artist nominee and self managed artist Claudia Robin Gunn is excited to announce pre-orders are open for the limited edition vinyl run of her 6th children’s album Firefly, produced by Grammy winner Dean Jones (NY) and created with help from NZ On Air Music.
She will be pressing locally with Holiday Records in Auckland. With two singles out already, and the album releasing to streaming platforms on September 8th via AWAL, the vinyl run will ship out late October in time for the holiday season, with a linocut art print and firefly stickers as a bonus for pre-orders.
Firefly the album is light hearted and yet grounded, covering themes from perseverance to food puns in a tangy audio collection for littles with big lights to shine, and parents who love to hear real instruments in the bops their kids play over, and over and over again.
Production took place virtually between Claudia’s Cockle Bay, Auckland studio and Dean’s Hudson Valley, NY haybale studio starting in late 2021 with a pilot track (Little by Little) proving to be a winning combination. This led to a grant to produce the full collection. All songs feature Dean Jones on harmonies and instruments, as well as guest artists Suzi Shelton (NY) and Little Miss Ann (Chicago) making an appearance second single 'Colours’.
With her indie label Little Wild Music a handcrafted operation despite recently clocking 10,000,000 Spotify streams of her music, Claudia has illustrated the cover art with a mix of watercolour and digital (procreate) and set up a spare room studio to shoot the music videos. The first video Hope is a Verb, released this week, features signs made of crayon and paint on cardboard, in a nod to climate protest placards seen around the world, and the words of youth leader Greta Thunberg and poet Amanda Gorman.
AIM: SANDPIT - Empowering a new Generation
Following on from the success of AIM:SANDBOX – Asians In Music co-founders Clarissa Chai and Mia Caintic have created a new programme that takes Pan-Asian-Kiwi (PAK) musical talent to the next level.
Asians in Music (AIM) in partnership with Where The Asians At‽ present:
AIM: SANDPIT - Empowering a new Generation
Following on from the success of AIM:SANDBOX – Asians In Music co-founders Clarissa Chai and Mia Caintic have created a new programme that takes Pan-Asian-Kiwi (PAK) musical talent to the next level.
AIM: SANDPIT – brewing a new generation of Pan-Asian-Kiwi (PAK) musical talent. Apply now to join the development programme. Five new or emerging artists will level up by getting a producer to get their demo song professionally recorded, mixed and mastered - ready for release. They will then get guidance from PR mentors on releasing their song.
AIM: SANDPIT is a next-level opportunity for Pan-Asian-Kiwi (PAK) bands and artists. Level up with a professionally mixed and mastered track and get mentoring in production and PR, getting your song ready for release. You’ll work with an established PAK producer mentor who will help you prepare for a studio recording session. You will then record your song with a recording engineer and with your producer mentor guiding you through the whole process. Your track will then be professionally mixed and mastered, ready for release. It doesn’t end there, we want you to level up your PR to take your next release to the next level! You will have three PR sessions with PR mentors to guide you on releasing your professionally recorded, mixed and mastered track.
There are five (5) spots for artists and/or bands and a participation fee of $50 if selected. Applicants must whakapapa (have a sense of belonging) to Asia, and be new or emerging artists. See more details below:
APPLY NOW - here’s the link to the form: Application form or go to www.asiansinmusic.nz
● What is included in the AIM: SANDPIT Programme? - READ MORE
● Who can apply? - READ MORE
● To apply you will need a finished song written by you/your band - READ MORE
Applications close: Sunday August 27th at 8 pm
Please share the Application form to all your PAK musician friends ASAP to help us launch a new generation of PAK musicians to the next level.
AND Join the Asians in Music Facebook group to get updates about AIM: SANDPIT and future opportunities.
VIËW & PHODISO ANNOUNCE UPCOMING ‘TWO STRANGERS’ EP & SHARE SECOND SINGLE ‘SOLO’ FEATURING CH! NONSO & MAZBOU Q
Longtime friends and now collaborators, VIËW and Phodiso, are excited to announce the release of their second single, ‘Solo’ ft. Ch! Nonso & Mazbou Q, from their upcoming collaborative EP titled, ‘Two Strangers.’
Longtime friends and now collaborators, VIËW and Phodiso, are excited to announce the release of their second single, ‘Solo’ ft. Ch! Nonso & Mazbou Q, from their upcoming collaborative EP titled, ‘Two Strangers.’ Set for release on 8 September 2023, ‘Two Strangers’ embodies their shared passion for music and their belief in the power of human connection.
‘Solo’ is more than just a song; it's a piece of art born from a very strange and isolating time. VIËW shares," The way ‘Solo’ came together started from the first week of lockdown back in 2020. I started doing a challenge where I made a beat or two everyday to help me mentally during lockdown. Sometime during that time I decided to start posting those beats to my instagram and the response to them was crazy with a lot of artists requesting beats. Phodiso requested “isolation day 3” which later morphed into ‘Solo’ a somewhat perfect amalgamation of struggling through and persevering even when it feels easier not to”
As a sneak peek into the EP, ‘Solo’ magnificently captures the synergy between VIËW's production and Phodiso's emotive vocals and introspective lyricism, accompanied by the remarkable contributions of Ch! Nonso and Mazbou Q. The single is a powerful reminder of the resilience found in human connection, and will resonate deeply with listeners and inspiring introspection about their own bonds.
The overarching theme of connection that courses through the EP is visually encapsulated by the color purple, symbolizing unity and boundless creativity. In celebration of the release of "Solo" and the upcoming EP, VIËW and Phodiso are engaging in collaborations with brands that share their vision of nurturing meaningful connections through art and music.
ARTIST BIO
Welcome to the sonic world of VIËW and Phodiso. Production meets introspective lyricism, reshaping music in its unique blend. VIËW's music spans the airwaves, collaborating with Tom Scott and more. Phodiso's journey from bands to solo success culminated in 'The ACTs' EP series. Their upcoming EP, 'Two Strangers,' explores human connection and unity, delivering an emotive experience for listeners. With VIËW's innovation and Phodiso's vocals, 'Two Strangers' unites music and connection, inviting listeners to shared experiences.
ISLA RELEASES ETHEREAL SINGLE “LOW”
ISLA fully embraces a nightmare with the release of her next single “Low”. The track captures the disorientation of a panic attack in public.
ISLA fully embraces a nightmare with the release of her next single “Low”. The track captures the disorientation of a panic attack in public.
“It’s freeing to write exactly how I feel, even when those emotions aren’t joyful. I’ve had a couple bad nights, and as the curtains close on my 20s I’ve been reflecting on them. Low is about a panic attack in public. How the room starts swimming and I can’t look at faces, and my ears fill up with cotton wool and train whistles all at once.”
ISLA is a sleepy singer-songwriter based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She found her feet as a performer when she attended an open mic hosted in a sea cave, and was inspired by the overwhelming talent the city has to offer. ISLA formed a band of cave people, and brought her ideas to life with the help of new friends.
Supported by "band of sisters" The Kindred, ISLA is releasing her sophomore EP "Low" in September 2023. The dream-folk collection marks a new sound for ISLA. "Low" explores seasonal depression and the memories that drift by in winter.