Choo Choo All Aboard the Music Train! ‘Little Wild Learning’ launches with whimsical new country music video
What began as songs for her toddlers entering kindergarten has become the album Little Wild Learning, launched with brand new video ‘Music Train’.
What began as songs for her toddlers entering kindergarten has become the album Little Wild Learning, launched with brand new video ‘Music Train’.
Claudia’s own experiences as a parent are a deep well of memories, mischief and nostalgia - and just a little too much coffee – always half cold. This Aotearoa Music Award (2024) winner just released her seventh album, Little Wild Learning - a sweet reflection on her children’s earliest days at kindy and school, now recorded for the first time, for a new generation. With her eldest son turning 18, Claudia brings these songs forth from a well-thumbed notebook with the support of NZ On Air Tamariki, accompanied by a cute as a button new video for country music song ‘Music Train’.
What started as voice notes, hastily captured on the walking school bus and kindy drop offs, are now sweet, smart bops and heartfelt harmonies arranged to educate, inspire and delight families everywhere.
Gunn’s APRA award winning knack for song writing, her collaborative approach and the team of stunning talent she has assembled from both New Zealand and Australia combine in ‘Little Wild Learning’ to give kids and their grown-ups a brand new musical magic moment. 7th time’s the charm?
The album includes 9 original tracks, plus their instrumental sing alongs to encourage participation and engagement. On the just released video for Music Train, kids are invited to imagine stepping aboard, bring their instruments and explore rhythm and rhyme. Little ones will adore Animal Sounds – a silly bop about animals that DON’T make sounds, and singing morning affirmations are a breeze while also learning phonics with ‘Alphabet Phonics – ABC of Awesome’.
The project includes co-writes exploring social emotional learning themes like how to make a friend, and how to let tummy butterflies help you fly, with Claudia’s mates from ‘straya - Benny Time and Angie Who. One of her oldest friends from kindy days, actor and vocalist Jenny Freed, lends a star turn on vocal harmonies for the song ‘Kindy Kid’. The music video shot by Michelle Sokolich of Show and Tell Video, features Jenny and Claudia performing at mat time for the children of Morningside Kindergarten, including Jenny’s own recently graduated son Miro.
Of this latest children’s music project Gunn says, “Surprise and delight are the touchstone I seek when I’m figuring out a song for kids. Also humour, pragmatism, and awe. For this album I wanted the music to be useful, surprising as well as beautiful.
Little Wild Learning was recorded with Claudia’s frequent collaborators Tom Fox and Marshall Smith of the Sound Room in Takapuna (Little Wild Christmas, Little Wild Universe, Sing Through the Year – Little Wild Childhood, Sing for the Sea – Little Wild Ocean Friends and Sing for the Earth – Little Wild Animals). NZ On Air supported the creation of this project.
Little Wild Learning will capture the hearts and imagination of children everywhere with these educational and engaging songs. These songs may be reverberating at breakfast tables, on morning school runs, at kindy mat times and in primary school libraries for many years to come!
The album is available now on all streaming platforms, and for sale on Claudia’s website, BandCamp and from US education provider Songs for Teaching.
Little Wild Learning - Listening Links - https://found.ee/Learning
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