Jason Parker presents Every Goddamn Minute
Aotearoa pop artist Jason Parker's playful and romantic new single, "Every Goddamn Minute" is out now! The track, brimming with joy and heartfelt emotion, captures the excitement and spontaneity of falling in love for the first time.
Aotearoa pop artist Jason Parker's playful and romantic new single, "Every Goddamn Minute" is out now! The track, brimming with joy and heartfelt emotion, captures the excitement and spontaneity of falling in love for the first time.
"Every Goddamn Minute" marks a pivotal moment in Parker's artistic journey, inspired by falling in love during the writing process. The track was born from a simple, yet powerful line: ‘Baby, you should know, that I think about you every goddamn minute.’ Initially, Parker was unsure if the phrase had been used before. After sharing it with the boy he was seeing at the time, he received encouragement to keep developing it. This support led Parker to create a song about falling deeply in love, a realisation he only fully grasped after the track was completed.
“The song is about getting out of my own way, living in the moment, and embracing love,” Parker explains. Though the relationship that inspired the song didn't last, "Every Goddamn Minute" serves as a joyful reminder of the fun and silliness that love can bring. "It’s special to have a piece of the good times cemented in the song," he adds.
Creating "Every Goddamn Minute," the latest single from Parker's upcoming EP 'Fairy Bread', was both a challenge and a delight. Working closely with Bigpop’s producer Maude Minnie Morris, the duo spent a considerable amount of time refining the track, going through multiple versions before finding the perfect vibe. "Out of all the songs from 'Fairy Bread', this one was definitely the problem child," Parker shares. “However, once the bass line and congas were in place, everything clicked”. A standout moment in the creation process was the addition of the robot voice saying "Every Goddamn Minute," which was recorded on Parker's phone during the first session and kept because of its charming simplicity.
The visual aspect of this project is just as vibrant and intentional as the music. Parker collaborated with artist Lane Worrall to create color-coded cover art for each track the upcoming EP, 'Fairy Bread', embodying the concept of ‘hundreds and thousands.’ Worrall’s creativity and commitment to the project helped bring Parker’s vision to life. Additionally, lyric videos for the EP, including one for "Every Goddamn Minute," were created by Cee Blu, a close friend of Parker’s and talented musician. "She really understands the ‘Jason Parker Popstar fantasy’," Parker's notes, highlighting the strong collaborative bond between them.
As Parker prepares for the release of "Every Goddamn Minute," his wish is simple: “I hope the song spreads a little love, brings a smile, and gets played loud at kitchen dance parties across the world.”
"Every Goddamn Minute" is out now via Aotearoa’s independent label Bigpop Records.
Malaika Hollis 'Losing'
What if a song could capture the bittersweet essence of finding light in the darkest moments? Malaika Hollis’ debut single, "Losing," does just that.
What if a song could capture the bittersweet essence of finding light in the darkest moments? Malaika Hollis’ debut single, "Losing," does just that. Malaika, an eighteen-year-old singer-songwriter from Takaka, New Zealand, is excited to share this deeply personal track with you.
"Losing" is a bittersweet indie folk song that blends soft acoustic instrumentation with introspective lyrics. Written from my mother’s perspective, it explores seasonal depression and the isolation of rural life, emphasising resilience and self-care.”
What sets "Losing" apart is its raw honesty in lyrics and production. The song was crafted in collaboration with Auckland-based producer Benjamin Mack at Big Fan Studios, where we developed an authentic soundscape that invites listeners into a moment of reflection.
MMF Aotearoa Announces Elevate 2024 Professional Development Workshop for Music Managers
The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa (MMF), with the invaluable support of NZ On Air, is excited to announce the launch of Elevate 2024, a two-day in-person Professional Development Workshop specifically designed for mid-career music managers and self-managing career artists in Aotearoa.
! APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED !
The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa (MMF), with the invaluable support of NZ On Air, is excited to announce the launch of Elevate 2024, a two-day in-person Professional Development Workshop specifically designed for mid-career music managers and self-managing career artists in Aotearoa. This transformative event offers managers the opportunity to enhance their skills, knowledge, and industry connections, fostering growth and sustainability in the Aotearoa music sector.
Held across Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th November at Big Fan, Tāmaki Makaurau, Elevate will bring together industry experts to share career insights and key strategies for succeeding in the fast-evolving world of music management.
Participants will dive into sessions covering:
● The business of music management
● Contracts and negotiations
● Shifting technology landscapes
● Developing and growing artist careers
● Q&A sessions with industry veterans
● Evening networking mixer
“The MMF Aotearoa is thrilled to launch Elevate, our first professional development workshop for Music Managers. Music Managers play a crucial role in shaping and supporting the careers of our artists, and investing in their development is key to supporting the growth and sustainability of our sector. We are hugely grateful to NZ On Air for their support.”
Cushla Aston, Chairperson MMF Aotearoa
Open to current members of the MMF by application, the workshop will not only provide participants with vital knowledge and skills, but will also foster connections with other managers and industry leaders through dedicated networking opportunities. This two-day experience will be complemented by a series of online follow-up sessions, ensuring ongoing support for participants after the event.
ELEVATE 2024
Tuesday 12 November – Wednesday 13 November
10am - 6pm (with evening mixer following on Tuesday)
Big Fan, 25 McDonald Street, Morningside, Tāmaki Makaurau
Elevate 2024 programme is open to all current members of MMF Aotearoa. The application process will consider each applicant's management experience, current career activity, and how they plan to utilise the Elevate programme to further their professional development. Applicants must also be available to attend both days.
MMF Aotearoa is offering three out-of-town grants to assist with travel and accommodation costs for participants located outside of the event’s host city. Successful recipients of these grants will have their flights and accommodation covered. Participants can find more information and indicate interest in these grants during the application process.
Applications open on Monday 16th September 2024 and must be submitted by 5pm on Monday 30th September 2024. To apply, visit the MMF Aotearoa website and complete the application form. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your career in music management with hands-on learning, expert guidance, and ongoing support.
ELEVATE 2024
Tuesday 12 November – Wednesday 13 November
10am - 6pm (with evening mixer following on Tuesday)
Big Fan, 25 McDonald Street, Morningside, Tāmaki Makaurau
Key Dates:
Monday 16 September: Applications open
Monday 30 September: Applications close (5pm)
Week of October 3: Applicants will be notified of the outcome
Tuesday 12 November – Wednesday 13 November: Elevate 2024 workshop
Elevate 2024 is open to MMF members only.
For any pātai, or to join MMF Aotearoa please visit www.mmf.co.nz or email lorraine.owen@mmf.co.nz
TESS LIAUTAUD RELEASES NEW SINGLE 'BLACK MACHINE' + ANNOUNCES ALBUM RELEASE SHOW
Franco-American, now Aotearoa's folk sweetheart Tess Liautaud has released fourth single from her upcoming sophomore album, Blue Mind (out October 25th).
Franco-American, now Aotearoa's folk sweetheart Tess Liautaud has released fourth single from her upcoming sophomore album, Blue Mind (out October 25th).
Black Machine was written on the first day of 2021, the indie-folk leaning track brings the likes of Wilco or Mazzy Star to mind. A lifting bass line while the drums hold it down. Sliding guitar, acoustic, pedalling banjo and melancholic lyrics. There's a push and pull that juxtaposes a sense of great movement with a solid linear rumble at it's core.
"Like you're driving in a dream''
''Songs are meditations, a little drop of medicine for the songwriter and for anyone else who cares to listen. It follows the arc of two characters as their relationship loses balance, the heavy weight, the drowning, the searching, the breaking free
and eventually the finding''
Along with today's single, Liautaud has announced a special album release show. This follows chart topping singles 'Here Go The Lovers' + 'The Way It's meant to Rain' and sold out shows on her 12-date New Zealand 'Gold Digger' tour back in May. For the lucky few, Liautaud and her band will play an intimate show at Space Academy in Ōtautahi on October 26.
TESS LIAUTAUD 'BLUE MIND' RELEASE
October 26
Ōtautahi - Space Academy
Tickets available from undertheradar.co.nz
BUY TICKETS HERE
Blue Mind is available for digital pre-order and on
Vinyl and Compact Disc via Bandcamp.com
PRE-ORDER HERE
ALLANA Goldsmith releases new reggae waiata 'Pīpīwharauroa' ahead of Māori Language Week
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist ALLANA Goldsmith has today released her reggae waiata (song) ‘Pīpīwharauroa’, just in time for Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) - alongside a stunning new music video with support from Te Māngai Pāho.
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist ALLANA Goldsmith has today released her reggae waiata (song) ‘Pīpīwharauroa’, just in time for Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) - alongside a stunning new music video with support from Te Māngai Pāho.
Listen To ‘Pīpīwharauroa’ Here
Perfectly capturing summer and family, ‘Pīpīwharauroa’ sweeps listeners into the summer spirit with smooth vocals and instrumentation reminiscent of New Zealand summer BBQ.
ALLANA shares, “the kupu (lyrics) recognise my Tairāwhiti (East Coast) roots. It begins with the familiar call of the Pīpīwharauroa (Shining Cuckoo), the bird that signifies the beginning of summer and the breaking of dawn, he rā ka hua (a new day). This feel-good Raumati waiata also reminds us to get the work done,'mahia te mahi', lest you’re called out!”
Directed by Shivani Karan and shot in Manaia, Coromandel, with ngā kaitiaki o Taungatara, ngā uri whakaheke o Tame Paraone, the video captures her loved ones at Taungatara, where her husband and tamariki (children) whakapapa to.
‘Pīpīwharauroa’ was co-written at Reo Māori Song Hubs in 2023 with Tame Tuari, Byllie-Jean Zeta, and Mātanga Reo Dr. Hona Black.
Today’s heartfelt reo release is sure to garner love from across Aotearoa during Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori – Māori Language Week and beyond.
NZ Country-popstar Abby Christo shares heartwarming new music video for hit ‘Just A Broken Heart’
Nashville-based kiwi country-popstar Abby Christo is continuing to channel girl power and roadtrip sing-alongs in her new music video for hit single ‘Just A Broken Heart’.
Watch HERE
Listen HERE
Nashville-based kiwi country-popstar Abby Christo is continuing to channel girl power and roadtrip sing-alongs in her new music video for hit single ‘Just A Broken Heart’.
Just a month since it’s release, ‘Just A Broken Heart’ has already seen love across Aotearoa and beyond - placing on the Official NZ Singles Chart, RadioScope Most Added Chart, NZOA New Tracks, Rolling Stone AU/NZ, The Hits, CMT, Southern Cross Radio, TAHI, Spotify All New Country, Apple New NMD, Today’s Country, Amazon Little BNM, Tearaway and so on! The nostalgic, coming-of-age country-pop track pairs Abby’s relatable and emotive songwriting with driving guitars, and layers of tender vocals.
“It’s for all the girls out there going through a breakup,” says Abby. “To empower them to know that it’s just a broken heart, and everything will be okay.”
Made with the support of NZ On Air, this stunning new music video captures the joy of friendship in the face of heartbreak. Featuring Abby’s three good friends (making the roadtrip fun feel even more real!), it was made across different locations in Australia by Blacklist Productions
“Being with friends who love you is the best cure for a heartache,” says Abby, “It’s a fun, sassy moment. ‘Just A Broken Heart’ is more mature, raw, and the start of a lot of new country music from me.”
Earlier this week, Abby shared a very special acoustic performance of ‘Just A Broken Heart’, which you catch watch HERE
With this new music video to accompany her catchy girl power anthem and more music in the works - plus exciting times ahead in Nashville - there really is no doubt that Abby Christo is bound for stardom!
Follow Abby Christo
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY | APPLE
Abby first stepped into the spotlight in 2015, when she appeared on X- Factor NZ as part of duo Mae Valley. They broke charts with their debut self-titled EP, and played alongside global country megastars like Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood and Kelsea Ballerini. Her debut solo single ‘Kiss Me Into Monday’ was released in 2019 and now has over 1.4 million streams. She then released her debut EP SLOW DOWN GIRL in 2022, and has seen huge love for her 2023 singles ‘Like Me Too’, ‘Note To Self’ (#8 NZ Hot Singles Chart) and ‘Shouldn’t Be Doing This’ (#6 NZ Hot Singles Chart) - receiving radioplay from the likes of ZM, The Edge, RNZ, The Breeze, More FM, The Hits and more.
Award-winning Aotearoa artist Jenni Smith shares intimate music video for country-pop track ‘I Only Fall’
Award-winning country-pop star Jenni Smith has today released a brand new music video for her latest single ‘I Only Fall’ - an intimate and nostalgic reflection on the bittersweet feelings of unspoken love.
Watch HERE
Listen HERE
Award-winning country-pop star Jenni Smith has today released a brand new music video for her latest single ‘I Only Fall’ - an intimate and nostalgic reflection on the bittersweet feelings of unspoken love.
“‘I Only Fall’ is for those who find themselves reminiscing about special moments and
wondering 'what if’,” says Jenni. “I hope the song is a companion in those quiet moments, offering a sense of understanding and shared experience.”
Just a week since it’s release, ‘I Only Fall’ has seen love from across the motu (JUICE TV, The Most FM, Southern Cross Country Radio, Planet FM, CMT AU/NZ) and fans are bound to fall in love with today’s gorgeous DIY music video, entirely directed and edited by the talented young creative.
Produced by Scott Seabright, the single joins Jenni’s already impressive list of accomplishments - In 2018, she took home the NZCMA Songwriter of the Year Award, and was runner up for the prize in 2020; she’s seen radioplay from community radio across NZ and Australia, as well as play from commercial stations such as More FM; and earlier this year her most recent single ‘T Shirt’ reached #3 on the NZ Official Hot NZ Singles chart!
A true star on the rise, you won’t want to miss this gorgeous music video from Jenni Smith!
Find Jenni Smith
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Spotify | Apple | Youtube | Bandcamp
TOI takes listeners on a soul-searching journey with sophomore album WAVES
TOI has today released their highly-anticipated new album WAVES - an honest and soulful collection of songs, which takes the listener on a journey and reinforces their reputation as one of the tightest bands in the land.
GET TICKETS TO ALBUM RELEASE SHOW - SEPTEMBER 2O HERE
PURCHASE WAVES VINYL HERE
TOI has today released their highly-anticipated new album WAVES - an honest and soulful collection of songs, which takes the listener on a journey and reinforces their reputation as one of the tightest bands in the land.
Listen to WAVES HERE
The album includes already released songs ‘Wired’, ‘We Got This’ and ‘Essence’ as well as new single ‘Get To Know You’ - an upbeat, feelgood song with an irresistible groove, that’s set to become a summer favourite. Listen to ‘Get To Know You’ HERE
Other stand-out songs on the record include ‘Slow Down’, which serves as a reminder to ‘trust the process’ and ‘Fly On’, which is packed with catchy hooks.
WAVES showcases TOI’s signature sound of modern soul, infused with old school funk and R&B. But the band also bravely pushes into new sonic territories as well.
“We deliberately set out with the intention of simply writing music that we truly love. We allowed ourselves creative freedom to experiment further with some styles and approaches that we would’ve perhaps avoided, or not been brave enough to dive into, in the past,” says the band’s co-founder and guitarist Jules Blewman.
The album also sees TOI at their most vulnerable. “We were just boys back when the band started. Over the years, a lot has changed for us all and it’s shaped who we are today. The result is a record that touches on far more personal topics than we’ve ever written about before. Many of which are all part of the cycle of life; feelings and experiences that others can hopefully relate to.”
TOI’s only goal when writing and recording WAVES was to make a record that came from a genuine and honest place. “We didn’t write this record thinking ‘will it get played on radio’ or ‘what playlists does it fit on’. We just went ‘F*** it! Let’s write from a true and genuine creative inspired by the music we really love; from feelings we truly felt and lessons we have learnt,” says Jules.
The majority of the songs on WAVES were produced by local legend Neil MacLeod, with Ben O’Leary from Drax Project, also turning his hand at production on the tracks ‘We Got This’ and ‘Essence’.
Poignantly the album was recorded at TOI’s own studio Te Māra in Wellington - their first record completed in the studio. “The studio is really cozy with good vibes. We were able to really take our time with the whole process, knowing that we could work until 4am if the creative vibes were flowing, which often happened,” says Jules.
For the first time ever, TOI is releasing the album on vinyl to enhance the listening experience.
“The album was written and produced as a concept album, where all the tracks - when listened to in order - relate to each other and tell a bigger story. So we’re really excited to present the record on vinyl.”
Fans of TOI can catch the band in their home town of Wellington at Meow on September 20 for a one-off WAVES album release show. Get tickets HERE
“Expect to hear the album played in full for the first time ever. We’ll also be playing some old and classic numbers of ours too. Bring your dancing shoes because you’ll want to move. Good vibes only!”
The band is also offering a discounted ticket and vinyl package, which allows fans to pick up their vinyl on the night of the show and have it signed in person.