Shady Wade 'Damaged Goods'
After more than 25 years of crafting heartfelt songs, Shady Wade is finally taking the leap into the spotlight with his debut single, Damaged Goods
After more than 25 years of crafting heartfelt songs, Shady Wade is finally taking the leap into the spotlight with his debut single, Damaged Goods, releasing on April 11th, 2025. The singer-songwriter’s journey, long marked by a prolific output of original music, is now reaching its culmination, with Shady Wade now taking the step from performing artist to recording artist.
At 42, Shady Wade is proving that it's never too late to pursue your dreams. His decision to release Damaged Goods comes after years of honing his craft and performing on the live circuit. He first developed his stage presence while living in rural Japan from 2007 to 2010, where he played small gigs and gained experience. He continued to build his presence in Christchurch’s vibrant open mic scene, even running his own Friday night open mic throughout 2019. It was also in 2019 that Shady Wade took his music and passion for rugby back to Japan, touring across the country with intimate gigs in Kobe, Fukuoka, Akita, and Tokyo—all while attending Rugby World Cup matches.
With the support of the Toi Ōtautahi Incubator Mentorship Programme, Shady Wade has partnered with renowned mentors and producers Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers, The Feelers, Opshop) and Sam Trevethick (Shapeshifter) to bring Damaged Goods to life. Together, they selected the track from his extensive catalogue, a song that explores emotional vulnerability and the walls we build after heartbreak. With lyrics like "You want to know it all, Comparing me to past mistakes, I hide behind my walls, Because I’ve been burned before, We're damaged goods for sure," the song speaks to anyone who’s been reluctant to open up after past emotional trauma.
To complement the powerful message in the song, Shady Wade teamed up with Neato Productions for the music video, using the symbolism of broken, rundown brick walls and wooden slats behind SOLE Music Academy to convey the emotional walls depicted in the song. The visual imagery encapsulates the essence of the track—a raw, honest look at the hesitance to let love in due to past pain.
As Shady Wade continues his momentum, he's already recording additional songs with Lyttelton-based producer Flynn Adamson (LYTTEL Studios) for release later this year, working towards a debut album that will showcase his unique blend of folk and rock influences.
This story is a testament to perseverance and artistry. It’s about a musician who, after years of building his craft and his name on the live circuit, is finally ready to share his voice and story with the world.
Applications Now Open for MMF Aotearoa’s 2025 Festival Bookers Speed Networking Sessions
The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Festival Bookers Speed Networking Sessions – a unique opportunity for MMF members to connect directly with some of Aotearoa’s top festival bookers.
The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Festival Bookers Speed Networking Sessions – a unique opportunity for MMF members to connect directly with some of Aotearoa’s top festival bookers.
Held online over two evenings – Wednesday 11 June and Wednesday 18 June 2025, from 6pm to 8pm – this annual event is designed to help get artists booked onto festival lineups and to provide valuable insights into what festival bookers are looking for.
These fast-paced virtual sessions give members the chance to showcase their artists, build relationships with key industry players, and receive expert advice on how to pitch successfully.
Applications are open now, with limited spaces available. MMF members keen to participate will need to submit a brief artist bio, musical styles, live performance links, and a list of preferred festival targets.
Applications close: Thursday 17 April 2025
Successful applicants notified by: Wednesday 7 May 2025
Please note: as this is a contestable process, submitting an application does not guarantee selection.
The Festival Bookers Speed Networking Sessions are just one of many initiatives MMF Aotearoa runs to support and strengthen the local music industry. To find out more or become a member, visit www.mmf.co.nz.
FESTIVAL BOOKERS
VIRTUAL SPEED NETWORKING SESSIONS 2025
(MMF MEMBERS ONLY)
Wednesday 11 June & Wednesday 18 June
6pm - 8pm each night
Bookers from the festivals below will be meeting with MMF members
CubaDupa (Wellington)
Craft Beer & Food Festival (Dunedin) / Otago Orientation (Otago)
Electric Avenue/ Nostalgia / South Island Wine & Food (Christchurch) / Great Kiwi Beer Fest (Christchurch)
Homegrown
Meatstock (Hamilton)
Music in Parks (Booking Auckland acts only)
Newtown Festival (Wellington)
Northern Bass (Kaiwaka) - 11 June only
Rhythm & Alps (Wanaka)
Rhythm & Vines (Gisborne)
Shipwrecked Music & Arts Festival (Te Arai, Auckland)
Soundsplash (Raglan)
Splore (Ōrere Point)
TSB Festival of Lights (New Plymouth)
WOMAD (New Plymouth) - 11 June only
The event is open to MMF members only.
To join please visit www.mmf.co.nz or email lorraine.owen@mmf.co.nz
Applications are open from today, Wednesday 9 April 2025, and will close 5pm on Thursday 17 April, or until all slots are taken.
MOHI Release His Latest Single “Flowers in Hendo” – The Tales of a West Auckland Native
Aotearoa’s lover boy MOHI hangs up his dancing shoes and bares his soul in his latest track, "Flowers in Hendo." This deeply personal track marks a significant shift in both sound and storytelling for MOHI, a raw, heartfelt letter to the artist’s younger self, capturing some of the raw truths of growing up in Hendo.
Aotearoa’s lover boy MOHI hangs up his dancing shoes and bares his soul in his latest track, "Flowers in Hendo." This deeply personal track marks a significant shift in both sound and storytelling for MOHI, a raw, heartfelt letter to the artist’s younger self, capturing some of the raw truths of growing up in Hendo.
"Flowers in Hendo" blends hip-hop, R&B, and local influences to create a fresh, evolving sound that represents MOHI’s growth as an artist. The title is a metaphor for the tales of growing up in Hendo, the many loved ones in his upbringing, those that grew from struggle, those that are no longer with us and those that live on through us.
MOHI explains, “This song is really personal for me, it’s the song that sparked this whole new project. Writing this song was the hardest and most confronting piece of music I’ve ever written, but what has come from this process has been so beautiful and healing in so many ways for me. ”
“Flowers In Hendo” is the first of a 5 track EP set to be released on NZ Music Month this May. Listeners should prepare to be reintroduced to MOHI, as this new project is set to be the most raw and real look into the artist.
MOHI says, “This song is a tribute to all of my mates, my loved ones, those that have passed on and those that live on today. Flowers In Hendo is a real look into Mohi the person, Mohi the West Auckland native, my past and what drives me to create music today.”
"Flowers in Hendo" is now available on all major streaming platforms.
Joe Cole // new single 'This Town'
Dive into the mind of a restless soul in This Town - Joe Cole's first release in almost a year documents a raw and unflinching journey through turmoil and despair. The song's storyteller clings to fading memories, as he claws his way towards a brighter future. Witness his struggle, his reflections, and the burning desire for a simpler life to return.
Dive into the mind of a restless soul in This Town - Joe Cole's first release in almost a year documents a raw and unflinching journey through turmoil and despair. The song's storyteller clings to fading memories, as he claws his way towards a brighter future. Witness his struggle, his reflections, and the burning desire for a simpler life to return.
This Town follows the success of the New Zealand based artists independently released May 2024 EP Breathing In, which to date garnered nearly 500,000 streams on Spotify alone. More music is on the horizon, so stay tuned.
Joe Cole is on tour in Aotearoa/New Zealand in May 2025:
23 May, Nivara Lounge, Hamilton, NZ
24 May, The Yard, Raglan, NZ
25 May, Portland Public House, Auckland, NZ
Born in Nelson, Aotearoa / New Zealand, at the cusp of a new millennium, Joe Cole is the youngest of three. Shifted shortly after his birth to the northern hemisphere, he learnt to walk and talk amidst the brick buildings and overcast skies of Scotland.
His family moved back to New Zealand’s South Island in 2003 and a few years later on to the windy capital Wellington, where Joe saw out his schooling days and first got started in music: “Mum bought me my first guitar, Dad’s a drummer and paid for my piano lessons. My brother and sister both taught me the first songs I learnt on guitar. Saying they have all played a role in my musical journey is an understatement.”
By now accustomed to making himself comfortable in new environments Joe followed a love to Hawkes Bay at seventeen. This is where his music career came into fruition. “It took one bad shift at my night shift job for me to make the decision.” Taking what money he had left, he purchased a simple busking set up and took to the streets of Napier.
Joe Cole is authentic. His unique voice, raspy and soothing at the same time, and heartfelt performance style quickly made him a crowd favourite in the Hawkes Bay.
Five years later, Joe has several thousand hours of live music under his belt and his May 2024 EP Breathing In has surpassed 500,000 streams.
When it comes to writing the music, Joe Cole finds inspiration in his day to day.
“It’s everywhere. The stories, the characters for your stories. You just have to remember to look out for them, that’s all.”
Erin G Releases Dreamy New Single "Chameleon"
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist Erin G returns with Chameleon, an NZ On Air funded track that feels like golden hour - warm, nostalgic, and effortlessly cool.
"Chameleon honors my multicultural heritage and the way I often find myself adapting like a chameleon." - Erin G
Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist Erin G returns with Chameleon, an NZ On Air funded track that feels like golden hour - warm, nostalgic, and effortlessly cool.
"I’m a revolving door of versions of me," Erin says. "But the magic never leaves. It’s fun. It’s innocent. It’s emotional. And it’s pure."
Stream Chameleon on all platforms
Written when she was a teenager watching a friend fall in love, Chameleon has evolved into something deeper and is an ode to change, love, and self-discovery.
"It’s a golden-hour soundtrack for a perfect summer day," Erin explains. "It reflects joy, melancholy, and everything in between."
Chameleon’s production is just as layered, with contributions from Tom Broome, Vivek Gabriel, and Shallows.
"This song has been through so many iterations," Erin says, "from full band arrangements in high school to solo loop pedal versions. It’s been shaped by incredible musicians who helped bring it to where it is today. Now, as I step fully into my sound, it finally feels right to let Chameleon into the world."
With a collaborative liquid drum and bass EP with DJ/Producer Altercation on the way and more solo music in the works, Erin G is creating her own lane, on her own terms.
Funded by NZ On Air under the Pan-Asian Fund.
ISLA NOON 'OUT OF BODY'
In her own words, Isla Noon is introspective, bold, emotive, and energetic. These qualities are woven into the vibrant, otherworldly fabric of her debut album, ‘Out of Body’, a collection of songs that explore themes of identity, detachment, and the winding path back to oneself.
In her own words, Isla Noon is introspective, bold, emotive, and energetic. These qualities are woven into the vibrant, otherworldly fabric of her debut album, ‘Out of Body’, a collection of songs that explore themes of identity, detachment, and the winding path back to oneself.
Set for release on Friday, 4th April, the album is an invitation to step into Noon’s unique world, a space where sound, image, and emotion collide in striking harmony.
“This album captures a time when I felt deeply disconnected from the world, from others, from myself,” Noon shares. “I wasn’t fully aware of how lost I was until I started writing. The songs became a map, each one helping me navigate my way back, reconnecting me to my body, my sense of self, and the world around me.”
From its inception, ‘Out of Body’ was designed as a fully immersive experience. The album’s sonic landscapes are deeply intertwined with a visual world that exists alongside it, a world built from vivid, instinctive imagery that arose in tandem with the music. “Every song had a scene, a colour, a feeling attached to it,” Noon explains. “Deep blues, flashes of neon, a lonely dance floor with a red wine spill drying to a sticky sheen. I knew from the beginning that this record wasn’t just about sound. It was about capturing the way these experiences looked and felt.”
‘Out of Body’ evolved beyond a collection of songs into a cohesive, intentional statement. Rather than a linear narrative, the album flows like a dream, one moment euphoric, the next haunting, always shifting yet interconnected. Its title reflects not just a feeling of disconnection, but the perspective gained by stepping outside oneself and seeing things anew.
The album’s title track, 'Body', was a similar catalyst. Originally a ballad, the song’s ascending chord riff evolved into something celestial after producer and close friend Maude Minnie Morris layered chaotic white noise and timpani hits over Noon’s synth line. “It took the chorus into outer space,” Noon recalls. “From there, everything else fell into place.”
The album balances luminous pop hooks with moments of deep, pulsing darkness. “I’ve always blended those worlds,” Noon says. “The early songs are steeped in escapism, their energy physical, almost desperate for release. As I moved through the writing process, I found myself embracing honesty and rawness in a way I hadn’t before. That demanded more grit, more weight in the production.”
The closing track, 'Spiralling Up', produced by artist Lola, became the final brushstroke, a moment of clarity and arrival. “It holds a different energy, like a deep breath after a storm,” Noon reflects. “It’s not about saying, ‘I’ve figured everything out,’ but recognising that growth isn’t linear. It loops and twists, but you can still feel yourself moving forward.”
While deeply introspective, 'Out of Body' is designed for movement. It is an album that pulses with life, meant to be danced to, felt viscerally. “This album is an expression of joy as much as it is a reckoning with loss,” Noon shares. “I hope people find themselves in it. I hope it feels like a space where they belong.”
The album will not only be released on streaming platforms but in physical form with CD copies being made. Noon herself has a large CD collection and is excited to be able to share her work in physical form.
Noon is also set to play an album release show at Big Fan on April 11th (tickets available from Under the Radar).
'Out of Body' is set to release Friday, 4th April via Aotearoa’s indie label Particle Recordings.
Claudia Gunn - Revisiting her TOYBOX Era
While it’s a good few years since Claudia’s kids had the living room floor strewn with diggers, dinosaurs and building blocks from the toybox, the songs she started writing for and about their playtime fun are now rolling, digging, clicking and roaring their way into the world on the new collection titled ‘PLAYFUL’ out today.
While it’s a good few years since Claudia’s kids had the living room floor strewn with diggers, dinosaurs and building blocks from the toybox, the songs she started writing for and about their playtime fun are now rolling, digging, clicking and roaring their way into the world on the new collection titled ‘PLAYFUL’ out today.
Catch these six bright and snappy songs, plus their kids karaoke instrumentals for kids aged 2 to 5, produced by frequent collaborator Tom Fox with additional instrumentation by Marshall Smith.
This mini collection is part of a wider release supported by NZ On Air Tamariki through their New Music Kids Project fund - follow Claudia’s channels for all the forthcoming songs and videos leading up to a deluxe album release in August 2025.
VELVETEEN RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM ‘HEAVY MACHINERY’
Jam packed with fuzzy Corgan-esque guitars, heavy drums alongside emotional vocal melodies and lyrics, the alt-rock debut channels the energy of 90s alt-rock, infused with a dark, post-punk edge and draws influence from the likes of The Smashing Pumpkins, Shihad, Jimmy Eat World, The Garden.
Ōtautahi’s latest rising rock outfit Velveteen has released their debut album Heavy Machinery via Winegum Records. Jam packed with fuzzy Corgan-esque guitars, heavy drums alongside emotional vocal melodies and lyrics, the alt-rock debut channels the energy of 90s alt-rock, infused with a dark, post-punk edge and draws influence from the likes of The Smashing Pumpkins, Shihad, Jimmy Eat World, The Garden. Heavy Machinery delves into a rollercoaster of emotions, with frontman Jai's heartfelt lyrics and burning vocals exploring his feelings during a time of heartbreak and the deterioration of some close relationships:
“I was going through a lot mentally when I was writing and recording… 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.”
Featured as the focus track alongside the album release is Post-Punk rager Salt Lake City which deals with songwriter Jai’s frustration around someone who used to “make everything a competition if you had a bad day”. As the unrelenting drums build into an anthemic halftime chorus, the listener gets to breathe for just a moment before diving right back in, tossed around by the palpable angst and frustration as Jai vents.
“You'd tell them about some mental problems and they were always doing way worse. I was very tired of my mental health and emotions being discarded by them because they were doing worse than me.”
Heavy Machinery is a true homegrown record, with Jai having performed the vast majority himself, and his brother Niko joining on drums for a few songs. The album includes “heart felt, bitter and at times aggressive songs” that were recorded and mixed over a period of 18 months “in the garage” at home by Mike Oakley (Volt Music Studios), with hours spent writing, recording, mixing, tweaking to land at the final product. The complete album is now available via Winegum Records on all digital platforms, and CDs are available in local record stores as well as Bandcamp.
Velveteen is the solo project of Jai Tudor-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.