Israel Starr, Sianne, Riddim Cartel - ‘Blessing’
‘Blessing’ brings together the stylings and vibes of three unique artists, with the vocals written over the top of an acoustic dancehall beat coming from Israel Starr.
Loop Electronic and Bless Up Music present a collaboration between three eclectic Aotearoa artists. Sianne and Riddim Cartel have combined with the track ‘Blessing’, presented by Israel Starr. The track is a drum & bass-laced banger, incorporating elements of dancehall which have made Israel Starr and his label Bless Up Music known worldwide.
‘Blessing’ brings together the stylings and vibes of three unique artists, with the vocals written over the top of an acoustic dancehall beat coming from Israel Starr. The track was then given a drum & bass beat from Riddim Cartel to go alongside soulful and soaring vocals from Sianne. The resulting track is a big festival-ready tune driven by a powerful vocal blending with a drum & bass sound that can only come from Aotearoa.
The track is a co-release coming from Loop Electronic and Bless Up Music, which shows the collaborative sound of the release - electronic music with tinges of dancehall reggae. Originally written passionately about the love Sianne has for her children, the track speaks to whatever Blessings the listener can have in their own lives. Completed over weeks over multiple revisions, reworking, and feedback from other producers and musicians. The finished product captures an Olympic-level vocal performance and beat creating a sound made for both the heads and the masses.
‘Blessing’ is a collaboration between three artists from different backgrounds, all with the same musical ethos. On a roll on the back of three new singles already released in 2025, Sianne’s profile is growing following on from a busy summer touring her powerful and distinctive R&B flavoured vocals across Aotearoa. Production on the track comes courtesy of Riddim Cartel, a dub, roots & jungle producer and DJ who has recently shared stages alongside Salmonella Dub and Rubi Du.
Piecing the puzzle together is Israel Starr, the man behind Bless Up Music. A multi-Platinum and Gold-selling artist, Israel’s brand of authentic roots-reggae, funk and world music has made him a key member of the music scene in Aotearoa for years. All three artists are based in Pōneke, Wellington, with the release featuring the unmistakable voices of three creatives coming out of New Zealand.
‘Blessing’ represents a true collaboration, and presents a sound undeniably from Aotearoa.
Catapult by INTROS is now live – Empowering emerging artists in Aotearoa
This brand-new competition is designed to support and amplify emerging artists in Aotearoa, giving one talented artist access to an essential toolkit to propel their music career forward.
The team behind Georgia Lines' web series INTROS is thrilled to announce that their new initiative, Catapult, is officially live! This brand-new competition is designed to support and amplify emerging artists in Aotearoa, giving one talented artist access to an essential toolkit to propel their music career forward.
This initiative, led by Georgia Lines and Mikee Carpinter, aims to provide independent artists with crucial industry support, resources, and exposure to help them successfully release and promote their music.
Who Can Enter? This competition is open to artists with a finished, unreleased song or a song that has been released on or after January 1, 2025. If you have a track that is ready to go and just needs the right support, Catapult is here to help get it heard!
Winner’s Prize Package Includes:
Feature on INTROS.
Rolling Stone AU/NZ feature article.
Tailored PR Campaign by NicNak Media.
1-Year MMF Membership (mentoring + networking).
NZ On Air New Tracks radio service – a monthly compilation of new songs from local artists.
Track mastered at Kog Studios.
Professional photoshoot with Frances Carter.
Studio day at Parachute Studios.
1-Year IMNZ Membership.
The Catapult competition is judged by an incredible panel of industry professionals who have generously contributed to the prize pack.
“Catapult is about giving an artist the tools they need to take their music to the next level. We know how difficult it can be to release music, and we’re beyond excited to provide this opportunity to a deserving artist.” – Georgia Lines.
“There are so many incredible artists and songs that don’t get the support they need—not because they aren’t good enough, but simply because it’s so hard to be heard in such a noisy world. Hopefully, with Catapult, we can help give someone the push they need to reach the next stage of their journey.” – Mikee Carpinter.
ŌTAUTAHI’S VELVETEEN ANNOUNCES DEBUT ALBUM
Winegum Records is thrilled to welcome Ōtautahi rock outfit Velveteen to the roster, and announces their debut album ‘Heavy Machinery’ alongside their latest single.
SINGLE ‘SATURDAY NIGHT IN VEGAS’ OUT TODAY
Winegum Records is thrilled to welcome Ōtautahi rock outfit Velveteen to the roster, and announces their debut album ‘Heavy Machinery’ alongside their latest single.
"Saturday Night in Vegas” is a ferocious track fueled by drop-tuned guitars and frantic drums, giving way to an explosive chorus reminiscent of 90s emo rock and shoegaze. Written by Velveteen's frontman and songwriter Jai Tudor-Oakley, the song serves as a cathartic outlet, detailing his experiences with outlandish individuals and unwarranted criticism of his music.
“A guy started talking to me at a bar in Auckland. He asked if I played music and if he could hear it. I played him my first single ever ‘Streamline’ and told me it sounded like shit. But I mean…fuck that guy. I wrote that song when I was like 15 or 16. I love it. It was like the first actually good song that I wrote that I was proud of. I was so pissed off and had to vent in some way and it definitely worked. I'm over it, but it's such a crazy thing to look back on.”
Saturday Night in Vegas is the latest single from Velveteen’s debut album Heavy Machinery, due out on March 28th via Winegum Records, jam packed with fuzzy Corgan-esque guitars, heavy drums and emotional vocal melodies and lyrics. Showcasing a unique sonic identity with influences from 80s post-punk, goth to 90s alternative rock, the album is raw and emotional - full of heartfelt and at times aggressive songs spanning an 18-month period of Jai’s life:
“I really love this album and it means so much to me. It's got some really angry moments and some very heartfelt ones. It's very emo and angsty, a bit gothic at times. It’s pretty loud and fuzzy and I love all of it.”
Velveteen is the solo project of Jai Oakley. A musician and artist living in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, New Zealand. Jai has emerged as a captivating solo artist, blending shoegaze, 90s alternative rock with elements of punk and electronica. Velveteen's music carries an infectious raw energy, emotional depth and authenticity. Velveteen delves into themes of introspection, self- discovery, love, and the human experience.
Anderson Rocio Releases Bold New Single “Women”
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Anderson Rocio unveils her latest single, Women, in honor of International Women’s Month. A commanding and defiant track, Women delivers a sharp critique of industry biases while celebrating resilience and self-worth.
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Anderson Rocio unveils her latest single, Women, on March 6th in honor of International Women’s Month. A commanding and defiant track, Women delivers a sharp critique of industry biases while celebrating resilience and self-worth.
“Women is inspired by encounters with industry figures who believe a woman’s success is tied to how well she fits their fantasies,” says Rocio. “It’s a song about rejecting that mindset, pushing back against the outdated narratives and standing firm in our own power as Women.”
Set against a dynamic fusion of alternative pop and daring production, Women showcases Rocio’s signature blend of evocative storytelling and raw emotion. With powerful lyrics like “Women don’t need your industry, women don’t need your sympathy”, the track is both a personal statement and a universal call for respect.
Recognized for her poignant lyricism and unique sonic identity, Rocio continues to push creative boundaries, with music that transcends entertainment, serving as a force for social impact. From her viral single Power In Us, which donates all streaming revenue to ocean conservation,to her unwavering commitment to artistic integrity, Rocio continues to carve a path as an artist with purpose.
Women will be available on all streaming platforms on March 6th, 2025.
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INSTAGRAM:
Anderson Rocio: https://www.instagram.com/andersonrociomusic/
Will McClean 'Okay Let's Begin'
"OKAY LET'S BEGIN" is a self produced hip hop track that combines lush piano sounds with moving grooves, showcasing Will McClean’s unique style and unmistakable sound. The song explores , inviting listeners to dive into an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue.
Emerging Wellington artist Will McClean is set to release his highly anticipated new single, "OKAY LET'S BEGIN," on Friday, February 28th, alongside an X-Files-inspired music video that will captivate viewers with its cinematic storytelling and mysterious vibes. The music video, shot by the talented Mason Rudd and his team, brings the track's enigmatic and otherworldly energy to life with a visually stunning homage to the iconic sci-fi series.
"OKAY LET'S BEGIN" is a self produced hip hop track that combines lush piano sounds with moving grooves, showcasing Will McClean’s unique style and unmistakable sound. The song explores , inviting listeners to dive into an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue.
The music video, directed by Mason Rudd, takes its cues from the suspenseful, supernatural themes of The X-Files, featuring shadowy government agents, cryptic symbols, and atmospheric visuals. Filmed with high production value, the video encapsulates the sense of mystery and tension that defines both the series and the song itself. The collaboration between Will McClean and Rudd’s creative team has resulted in a captivating narrative that will leave fans eagerly anticipating more.
Loopy Tunes release two new Matariki waiata for Tamariki 'Hiwa-i-te-rangi' and 'Te Waka o Rangi (Pōhutukawa)'
Today Loopy Tunes (Preschool) Music released two new waiata 'Hiwa-i-te-rangi' and 'Te Waka o Rangi (Pōhutukawa)' from their new upcoming Matariki album 'Mā: Matariki for Tamariki'
PRESAVE 'Hiwi-i-te-rangi' HERE
PRESAVE 'Te Waka O Rangi (Pōhutukawa)' HERE
Today Loopy Tunes (Preschool) Music released two new waiata 'Hiwa-i-te-rangi' and 'Te Waka o Rangi (Pōhutukawa)' from their new upcoming Matariki album 'Mā: Matariki for Tamariki', made with support from NZ on Air.
A 13-track assortment, the upcoming 'Mā: Matariki for Tamariki' album from the Ōtautahi-based sister duo was made for "our little ones to help them understand Matariki and grow up singing and dancing to the waiata".
Listen to 'Hiwa-i-te-rangi' HERE
"This is a gorgeous wee song about sending your wishes to Hiwa-i-te-rangi" explain the duo, the youngest whetū in the Matariki cluster. The waiata explains that your wishes may come true with an emphasis on goal setting and features a few tamariki who share their wishes for the year ahead.
Listen to "Te Waka O Rangi (Pōhutukawa)" HERE
The duo describe Te Waka O Rangi (Pōhutukawa) as a beautiful yet difficult lullaby to write, due to the discussion of death. “We decided to write about Te Waka O Rangi because we thought it was a beautiful image of how we farewell our loved ones and thought the imagery would relate well with them.” says Siu.
These waiata will be accompanied by lyric videos created by Māui Studios on March 3 via the Loopy Tunes YouTube channel.
Siu Williams-Lemi and Leah Williams-Partington make up Loopy Tunes Music. With ancestral links to the largest Māori tribe in Aotearoa, Ngāpuhi, and the friendly islands of Tonga, the sisters bring a super-fun cultural vibe to the children’s music world. They are recognised for their reorua/bilingual Māori and Pasifika children’s waiata, sung in their beautifully harmonious style.
With a growing catalogue of over 170 waiata, their album 'Mā: Matariki for Tamariki' will follow “Kahurangi: Little Treasures” – a 23-song assortment of mostly bilingual tunes that young tamariki and the young at heart will enjoy, released in October 2024.
2025 will see the duo touring the North Canterbury region through to Kaikoura in April, followed by an extra special tour to Northland in October to visit their iwi whenua, maunga and marae. Alongside touring, they are looking forward to continuing their new fortnightly YouTube series, “Music Time with Loopy Tunes”.
‘Hiwi-i-te-rangi’ and ‘Te Waka o Rangi (Pōhutukawa)’ were made possible thanks to the support of NZ on Air Tamariki funding.
'Hiwi-i-te-rangi' and 'Te Waka o Rangi (Pōhutukawa)' are out now (Feb 28) on all streaming platforms.
CHRISTCHURCH ARTIST PHOEBE VIC ANNOUNCES NEW SINGLE ‘MAD WOMAN’
Hot off her appearance at Nostalgia Festival this year, Phoebe Vic releases ‘Mad Woman’, an alt-pop, country-tinged track, calling out gaslighters.
Hot off her appearance at Nostalgia Festival this year, Phoebe Vic releases ‘Mad Woman’, an alt-pop, country-tinged track, calling out gaslighters.
“This song was inspired by someone who tried to tell my friends I was crazy, after attempting to gaslight me.” Vic explains. “I wanted to write something that said exactly how I felt about it, while also exposing their behaviour. Thus, ‘Mad Woman’ came to be”.
‘Mad Woman’ was created alongside APRA Silver Scroll nominee and producer, Emily C. Browning, with mix and master by Math Bishop.
The production lilts and shifts as the story unfolds, punctuated with janky guitar riffs and bright operatic vocal samples. With its rolling bass-line and shuffling percussion, it creates the perfect backdrop for Vic’s blunt and sometimes sarcastic drawl to hit home.
“I know there will be many people who have had a similar experience of someone trying to convince them they’re hysterical or crazy.” says Vic. “Well, if you want a “mad woman”, here she is.”
For fans of Lola Young and Self-Esteem, ‘Mad Woman’ is available on all streaming services and is available to purchase on Bandcamp and iTunes.
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Wellington Heads 2002 album Spin The Same Bandcamp release
Named after the striking features on Wellington’s rugged southern coastline, Wellington Heads have been playing in and around the capital city, and in venues further afield, for over 25 years.
Named after the striking features on Wellington’s rugged southern coastline, Wellington Heads have been playing in and around the capital city, and in venues further afield, for over 25 years.
Wellington Heads consists of three core songwriter-musicians (Geoff Keith, Neil Worboys, and Bill Wood) who combine with key musicians to form a larger live and recording band. Their songs comment on life experiences with a distinctive Wellington flavour.
Wellington Heads have evolved their own sound through the influences of Kansas style blue jazz, the swinging rhythm n blues of Louis Jordan and Ray Charles, Chicago blues and infused with Pacific/Hawaiian rhythms, New Orleans grooves and Latino feels.
Sharp and energetic, Wellington Heads entice people to the dance floor, regularly delighting audiences at Wellington venues, and playing festivals, corporate and private functions. They are frequently invited to perform outside of Wellington, and over the years have played Auckland, Tauranga, Manawatu, Nelson and Wellington Jazz and Blues Festivals.