Emerging Reggae Band 'MIRAGE' Release their second Single ‘Kotahitanga’ (Uprising)
'MIRAGE' .. following the recent successful release of their debut track ‘He whakakitenga mou’ are releasing a fresh new waiata ‘Kotahitanga’ which translates to ‘Uprising’.
'MIRAGE' .. following the recent successful release of their debut track ‘He whakakitenga mou’ are releasing a fresh new waiata ‘Kotahitanga’ which translates to ‘Uprising’.
This talented three-piece group from Tauranga, 'Mirage' are a reggae band building an audience around Aotearoa. The band are Ben Horlock (Ngāti Porou / Ngāi Te Rangi) 20 years on vocals, Jahvyn Douglas (Ngāi Te Rangi) 18 years, on bass and Benji Seiuli (Samoa /Aotearoa) 19 years on drums/keys.
The track 'Kotahitanga' was written by lead singer Ben, and the band's bass player Jahvyn has again translated the group’s inspired lyrics into Te Reo Maori. Ben says "this track is about the unity of the people... all of us walking and working together for change...we gotta turn things around, just because at the moment, this world we live in feels like craziness is happening every other day. Make a change, for us the people and have some sort of uprising…”
MIRAGE continues to build their momentum with various features on radio, online and releasing more music to build their fanbase. Their recent debut single release had just over 8000 views on Youtube...
Lead singer Ben recently appeared in Rolling Stone Magazine November edition alongside Tiki Taane, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Troy Kingi, Boh Runga and other notable musicians as part of the magazine essay profile on world renowned music photographer Chris Cuffaro.
The group is in collaboration talks with some leading reggae artists and producers (i.e. Christian Tjandrawinata / Blue Eyed Maori), exciting things ahead for MIRAGE…watch this space!!!
Catch Mirage live at 'One Love' Jan27 /28 2024 in Tauranga on both Saturday and Sunday!! To enhance their live show, the band will soon add more members to their line up in 2024, First up is Jacob Roos (Ngāpuhi) on guitar and drums.
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JUJULIPPS presents Get That Shot EP alongside title track
After a year of going from strength to strength, on November 24, one of 2023’s most anticipated releases, Jujulipps’ Get That Shot EP will be unleashed on the world in her increasingly celebrated bombastic style.
Jujulipps, the supremely talented and larger than life Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland, New Zealand) based rapper and hip-hop artist, is back! After a year of going from strength to strength, on November 24, one of 2023’s most anticipated releases, Jujulipps’ Get That Shot EP will be unleashed on the world in her increasingly celebrated bombastic style.
Releasing alongside the Get That Shot EP is the final single and title track, a song of encouragement and pursuit which punches with urgency and ferocity.
“I want ‘Get That Shot’ to be a call out for everyone to believe in themselves and take that first step,” says Jujulipps. “While it isn’t always easy following your dreams, everyone has the power to take that first step. It can seem daunting to put yourself out there, but it’s necessary in order to learn, grow, and elevate to become the person you want to be. ‘Get That Shot’ explores the doubt I’ve felt from myself and others when I was starting out. Thankfully, I don’t care too much about people’s perceptions, pushed forward and took that shot. I’d love to see others find it within themselves to also GET THAT SHOT.”
Much like everything that Jujulipps puts her mind to, the music video for ‘Get That Shot’ (directed by the talented Tom Grut) is powerful, playful, and effortlessly cool.
Of the video, Jujulipps says “it was such a dope process! Tom and I had the opportunity to really dive deeply into what this track meant to me and what I wanted to portray. When you see me standing on top of the meteor, that depicts shooting for the moon and how the world is mine. Writing on the bedroom walls illustrates my journey as a young woman and artist navigating all the different scenes. Then we play with the constant pressures of coming up as a new artist by showing me being bombarded by the reporters flashing cameras and demanding attention, Importantly, I also got to work with amazing hair stylist Paida Machakaire from Kunaka Hair x Beauty to create the gorgeous hairdos. It was such an honour working with an authentic African hair braiding artist for my work.”
The Get That Shot EP features tracks such as ‘Saucy’, which has already achieved extensive success on the New Zealand Official Music Charts, Hot 20 NZ Singles, and the Student Radio Network, and ‘Airplane Mode,’ which won the 2023 Student Radio Network Award for Te Tōtahi Toa (Favourite Single), and premiered in Rolling Stone. They described Jujulipps as “a dynamic and fearless rapper, a layered and intertextual artist, [who] carries it all out in self-assured style.”
On the release of the Get That Shot EP, Jujulipps says she feels “ecstatic. Some of these songs have been in the vault for so long and I feel genuine delight now I finally have the work that myself, Abraham Kunin, Luke Berryman and the Bigpop team have worked so hard on out in the world.
“The running theme throughout the EP is of encouragement and pursuit,” says Jujulipps. “There will always be obstacles as well as trials and hardships, but the end result after taking those daunting first steps is always so rewarding. It fills me with so much pride knowing there was a time when I was afraid of standing where I am now. The only reason I am where I am is because I took those first scary steps and said yes.”
It’s been a massive year of live performances for Jujulipps, with some of her many feats including gracing the stages of Bigsound and SXSW, Cuba Dupa, the Nelson Arts Festival, and the APRA AMCOS Silver Scrolls Awards, not to mention opening for Sudan Archives at the Powerstation, and Melodownz at Auckland’s iconic Hollywood Avondale. Anyone who has had the pleasure to witness Jujulipps perform the tracks off Get That Shot live at one of the many incredible performances of the year knows she is definitely not one to miss.
“When I perform these songs I feel so empowered,” she says. “It’s always a great time to be performing and to be able to have that energy exchange with the audience. When I’m performing a track like ‘Get That Shot’ it’s super empowering having people really listen to the lyrics and get into it.”
The Get That Shot EP is produced by Abraham Kunin, and mixed by Luke Berryman. It’s a culmination of a lot of hard work, big ideas and dedication, which Jujulipps now reflects on.
“Making this EP was a character-building journey. The things I know now I would have never known a year ago. I’ve learnt lessons, had many wins, had some losses, but at every step of the way I have been ready for each outcome. I’m grateful to have had so much support during this time. This journey has been a great insight into where my artistry can go and it’s made me even more excited for where life will take me. I’ve learnt to trust myself and to venture into territories I didn’t think I would’ve before. It’s such a blessing as that’s all ‘Get That Shot’ is about. It’s been a wild ride and I really can’t wait for more!”
The Get That Shot EP, alongside its title track, releases November 24, 2023 via Aotearoa New Zealand indie label Bigpop Records.
Mazbou Q and King Green Unite in Powerful Drill Track 'CLRS'
Rapper Mazbou Q is making waves with his powerful new drill track and music video, 'CLRS,' from his ongoing project 'The Sum of Unfinished Businesses.’
Rapper Mazbou Q is making waves with his powerful new drill track and music video, 'CLRS,' from his ongoing project 'The Sum of Unfinished Businesses.' Joining forces with Washington DC-based Hip-hop artist and content creator, King Green, this collaboration proves to be a magnificent union for both artists.
Watch 'CLRS here
King Green, known for his past collaborations, including a feature with renowned rapper Eminem on the 2018 track 'Caterpillar' by Royce Da 5'9, brings a dynamic energy to 'CLRS.' As the frontman of the indie rock/rap group RDGLDGRN, who have collaborated with notable artists such as Dave Grohl and Pharrell Williams, King Green's artistry perfectly compliments Mazbou Q's kaupapa.
In 'CLRS,' Mazbou Q delivers an important message to those experiencing internal conflict due to colonialism, white supremacy and encourages them to resist by unifying instead.
Mazbou Q Shares “CLRS’ is pronounced ‘Colours’, but omits vowels to indicate unity between the different spellings. The inclusion of the main colours red, green, and black, symbolising the Pan-African flag, further reinforces the song's message as a powerful statement of unity.” This is a timely release for the rapper with current situations in Palestine and Sudan - both of whom use Red, Black and Green in their flags.
The release of 'CLRS' follows Mazbou Q's successful Rap Science US College Tour, where he captivated audiences with his captivating performances and Rap Science content. Invited to esteemed institutions such as Louisiana State University, Southern University (HBCU), Berklee College of Music, and Harvard University, Mazbou Q's talent and presence left a lasting impact. Notably, his social media following skyrocketed from 9k to an impressive 50k followers within a month, thanks to a viral clip discussing the application of 'hemiola,' a rhythm theory concept, to rap.
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Tāmaki Makaurau Based Artist Kédu Releases Mesmerising Single "Everyday"
With the release of her latest single, "Everyday," artist Kédu takes listeners on an immersive journey through a melange of musical genres, including soul, RnB, and an electronic soundscape. Crafting an experience that invokes the essence of a nostalgic summer romance.
With the release of her latest single, "Everyday," artist Kédu takes listeners on an immersive journey through a melange of musical genres, including soul, RnB, and an electronic soundscape. Crafting an experience that invokes the essence of a nostalgic summer romance.
This track beautifully merges Kédu’s diverse influences, combining soothing vocals, evocative lyricism, and a symphony of rich instrumental elements, all laced with soul-stirring beats.
“Everyday” weaves a rich array of emotions through nuanced lyricism and symbolic expression. Its electronic symphonies and dreamlike backing vocalisations transcend temporal boundaries, creating an ethereal sonic sound that resonates across time and space.
To experience the mesmerising allure of "Everyday," listen to the track here: https://kedu.ffm.to/everyday
In breaking down the inspiration behind this song, Kédu reflects “I wanted to write a song that describes the feelings of my first serious wlw relationship and the obsessive thoughts that came with it. The track follows me reminiscing on details of moments spent together as well as thinking of moments to come”
"Everyday" is a self-produced gem, with backing vocals and guitar performed by Lola Stoodley, drums by Cory Champion, and masterfully mixed and mastered by Benny Tones. This collaborative effort has resulted in a seamless fusion of talents, enriching the song's narrative and emotional depth.
“Everyday” marks a pivotal moment in Kédu's journey, serving as the first track from her upcoming body of work.
Kédu, otherwise known as Jess Penson, is a multi-faceted musician who has explored many aspects of her musicality throughout her career. She began her musical journey as a member of the RnB girl group Techniclr before venturing into electronic music as one half of the producer, DJ, and live electronic performance duo Kédu Carlö. Her eclectic taste in music is reflected in her sound, which draws from genres such as Jazz, Soul and RnB, as well as her love for electronic soundscapes and synth based music. Kédu has had the opportunity to perform with artists such as Nathan Haines and Flamingo Pier, showcasing her versatility as a musician and her ability to adapt to different styles. With her unique blend of genres, Kédu creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Follow Kédu Here:
New Zealand Dream-Rock Band Lunar Intruder Take on Isolation & Self-Doubt, With Euphoric New Single ‘House’
Blissfully uniting layers of guitar, bass, drums and vocals, throughout a soul searching exploration of loneliness and insecurity, Christchruch four-piece Lunar Intruder present the sublime new single ‘House’
Blissfully uniting layers of guitar, bass, drums and vocals, throughout a soul searching exploration of loneliness and insecurity, Christchruch four-piece Lunar Intruder present the sublime new single ‘House’ paired with a Melancholic music video directed by Amber Beaton set for release via VEVO on 8 December 2023.
Gifting a reverb-kissed embrace akin to shoegaze but with an overall brightness and clear passion to the build-up and leading vocal, ‘House’ feels like a timeless classic as it pours through - the sentiments and melodies intertwining beautifully to bring forth a fine balance between the deeply personal and the broadly relatable.
Combining the talents of rhythm guitarist and singer Cameron Buyers, bassist Matthew Genet, lead guitarist Max Wolvekamp, and drummer Ricki Allan, Lunar Intruder follow up their vastly streamed single ‘What You Wanted’, with an enchanting fusion of evocative intentions and pure musical connection.
Releasing 24 November 2023 the profoundly metaphorical ‘House’ relays a bold sense of vulnerability and contemplation, but juxtaposes this realness and grit with a clear warmth of melody and arrangement.
Promising a refreshing balance of fearless honesty and passionate conviction at the helm, Lunar Intruder have been making waves online and throughout the live scenes of Aotearoa this year, amassing thousands of monthly listeners. With the release of ‘House’, the third single from their upcoming and highly anticipated album, that reach is set to extend all the more so.
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Waguan Drops ‘OUTSIDE’: A Fusion of Afrobeat and Hip-Hop, Featuring local rappers Gino October and Jujulipps.
New Zealand's music landscape is set ablaze with the release of ‘OUTSIDE,’ the latest sonic venture from rapper and producer, Waguan.
New Zealand's music landscape is set ablaze with the release of ‘OUTSIDE,’ the latest sonic venture from rapper and producer, Waguan. This dynamic track features fellow local artists Gino October and Jujulipps. Produced by WHO SHOT SCOTT, ‘OUTSIDE’ is set in a sonic African jungle and is a preview of what's in store from Waguan's upcoming project, 'ZULU MILK,' scheduled for an early 2024 release.
‘OUTSIDE’ is paired with a music video directed by Tom Grut set for release early 2023.
Listen to 'OUTSIDE' here
In the heart of the track, Waguan, Gino October and Jujulipps lay bare the essence of their journey as diaspora kids. "The hook “it ain't safe outside” is a poignant and powerful reflection of our migrant story," reveals Waguan "It speaks of the places we come from, often fraught with challenges, and the courage it takes to forge ahead, carrying our essence, magic, and wisdom. ‘OUTSIDE’ is a testament to how our generation moves in the world and how we choose not to be silent."
Throughout the upcoming project, Waguan embraces "The Monkey Man'' persona, a playful expression inspired by conversations with his family about his artistic personality. This alter ego embodies monkeys, which for Waguan symbolise strength and resilience, a symbol of his artistic spirit, a theme that will continue in his 2024 release.
The artist mentions “The creation of this track felt like Gino October, Jujulipps, WHO SHOT SCOT and I were all superheroes doing a crossover, or doing a link up. I felt like we were the young avengers or the young justice league and it was a chance for us to showcase to one another and the world what we were up to”. Gino October, the ringmaster of the track, sets the stage for Waguan's entrance with his “Monkey Man” persona, accompanied by percussion and the sounds of the African jungle. Jujulipps adds the finishing touch with her unstoppable and confident energy.
With 'ZULU MILK' on the horizon, Waguan's upcoming project promises fire music and visuals.
Find Waguan Here: INSTAGRAM
AMBER CARLY WILLIAMS '21 ROSES' EP
On the 24th of November, Ōtautahi-based indie-pop artist Amber Carly Williams will release her debut EP ‘21 Roses’, a body of vulnerable songs that signifies Amber’s growth in who she is and where she’s been.
On the 24th of November, Ōtautahi-based indie-pop artist Amber Carly Williams will release her debut EP ‘21 Roses’, a body of vulnerable songs that signifies Amber’s growth in who she is and where she’s been.
Amber is successfully a full-time musician, playing gigs all around Canterbury and funding this project independently, alongside the assistance of NZ On Air’s Development fund. This EP follows on from her first three singles: Kids On The Internet, Life Of The Party, and the title-track of the EP, 21 Roses (out Nov 3rd). These songs were written over the course of the last couple of years, reflecting on the journey of upbringing, loss, heartbreak and anxiety. The EP is titled 21 Roses, after the single, as it’s the most significant, impactful song of all. It’s a particularly visual song and the EP carries on certain themes of it throughout.
“21 Roses is a song I wrote about memories I have with my mum, and the symbolism of the 21 Roses represents all of the individual roses my dad gave to her for every valentines day they were together. My goal for this song was to leave a mark on people. To leave them feeling something - I for one felt some heavy feelings when I first got the master track back. Alongside the song, there is a music video, which was emotional and time consuming to put together but well worth it.” - Amber
Following on from Amber’s participation on TVNZ’s ‘Popstars’ in 2021, Amber has found herself in many collaborative writing spaces, expanding her knowledge and putting her skills to practice. However, the process of creating this EP was by writing all of the songs by herself and then bringing them to producer Terence O’Connor to work on the production. Terence has formed a beautiful soundscape that perfectly captures the essence of the songs, and Amber’s stunning voice slides right on top. This catalog of songs showcases an artist's talent that would sit comfortably amongst the likes of Lizzy McAlpine and Phoebe Bridgers.
The release of 21 Roses is set to be accompanied by an array of shows/festivals including Christchurch, South Island Wine & Food Fest and Rolling Meadows festival to name a few, setting Amber up as a must-see act for indie music fans in Aotearoa this summer.
PRINS: Christchurch Headliner announced
New Zealand’s latest pop phenomenon, PRINS, is back where it all started! After taking London by storm and hot off a head-spinning world tour across four continents, PRINS returns to the James Hay Theatre with the electric energy her shows are known for, fresh off the global acclaim of her latest single "Savage."
New Zealand’s latest pop phenomenon, PRINS, is back where it all started! After taking London by storm and hot off a head-spinning world tour across four continents, PRINS returns to the James Hay Theatre with the electric energy her shows are known for, fresh off the global acclaim of her latest single "Savage."
PRINS’ chart-topping singles and Drum n’ Bass collaborations have become staples on New Zealand's airwaves and biggest festival stages, propelling her to stunning heights. Fans from London to Manlia and Barcelona to Seoul have experienced her new show firsthand, and now it’s time for Christchurch to get in on the action.
PRINS explains “I'm beyond thrilled to bring my most exciting show yet back to Christchurch — it's going to be my biggest and most unforgettable headline show to date!"
Joining PRINS will be "Popstars NZ" winner Christabel and the hugely talented Amber Carly Williams showcasing the best of New Zealand's pop brilliance.
General Public
Onsale: 24th of November, 9am
