The 2025 Taite Music Prize Winner is MOKOTRON - WAEREA
Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) is proud to announce the winner of the prestigious 2025 Taite Music Prize at an exclusive ceremony held at the Q Theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau. Congratulations to our MMF managed artists MOKOTRON, winner of the Taite Music Prize, and Byllie-Jean, winner of Best Independent Debut.
Independent Music NZ presents
Taite Music Prize 2025
MOKOTRON - WAEREA
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2025 Auckland Live Best Independent Debut winner; Byllie-Jean - Filter
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2025 Independent Spirit Award presented to Rohan Evans
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NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award to Chris Schulz for Boiler Room
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SHIHAD - Killjoy take home the
Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award
Rātū/Tuesday, 15 Paenga-whāwhā/April, 2025 - 9:00 PM
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Independent Music NZ presents
Taite Music Prize 2025
MOKOTRON - WAEREA
+
2025 Auckland Live Best Independent Debut winner; Byllie-Jean - Filter
+
2025 Independent Spirit Award presented to Rohan Evans
+
NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award to Chris Schulz for Boiler Room
+
SHIHAD - Killjoy take home the
Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award
Independent Music New Zealand (IMNZ) is proud to announce the winner of the prestigious 2025 Taite Music Prize at an exclusive ceremony held at the Q Theatre in Tāmaki Makaurau. The event celebrated outstanding New Zealand albums released in the previous calendar year and showcased exceptional local talent across genres.
Pippa Ryan-Kidd of IMNZ set the tone of the night with an inspiring opening speech, "By recognising and celebrating the most creative and talented musicians, these Awards help to elevate music as an art form and highlight its importance within our culture. It is our job to inform and remind the rest of the nation - how important Aotearoa Music is to them."
Tonight’s main prize winner, MOKOTRON, was awarded the Taite trophy for his album, WAEREA, released via local label, Sunreturn. Mokotron receives a $12,500 cash prize, courtesy of founding partner Recorded Music NZ. The award was presented by 2024 winner Vera Ellen and Nick Atkinson (Supergroove, Hopetoun Brown and Independent Artist Representative from Recorded Music NZ). During the presentation, Vera Ellen said: “May this award be a beautiful sound that echoes out to your family, kids, and community.”
The winning album, WAEREA has been recognised as a bold and uncompromising statement—reclaiming space through sound by intertwining whakapapa with contemporary narratives. This work not only confronts present-day realities but also expands the horizons of bass music in Aotearoa. Reflecting on the intent behind the album, MOKOTRON said: “Whānau, when I write music, I want people to know that it could only come from one place in the world — Aotearoa.”
Additional Honours of the Evening:
The Auckland Live Best Independent Debut award goes to Byllie-Jean for her debut album Filter. With a distinctive blend of pop and experimental sounds, Filter has drawn acclaim for its fearless lyricism, genre-defying production, and sharp political edge. Tracks shift seamlessly from soulful vulnerability to wry social critique, marking Byllie-Jean as a vital new voice in Aotearoa music. “Well, this is going to take a young minute to process — thank you! For me, this is a win for all wāhine Māori. Congratulations, wāhine Māori! No matter what happens, we just keep holding it down,” said Byllie-Jean in her acceptance speech. Daniel Clarke, Director of Performing Arts at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, leading Auckland Live says: “Supporting Aotearoa’s community of independent music artists is an important part of our mahi. We’re incredibly proud to be part of the Taite Music Prize eco-system and to help empower our local singers, songwriters and musicians with their artistic endeavours. I’d like to personally congratulate Auckland Live Best Independent Debut winner Byllie-jean for her extraordinary work on Filter.”
The Independent Spirit Award was presented to Rohan Evans, a true champion of New Zealand's independent music scene. As the founder of The Wine Cellar, a beloved venue beneath Auckland's St Kevin's Arcade, Rohan has been instrumental in nurturing emerging artists since 2004. His dedication has earned him immense respect within the industry.
Chris Schulz took home the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award for Boiler Room, his Substack dedicated to longform stories from the heart of New Zealand music. From revisiting overlooked albums to tracing cultural shifts through sound, Schulz’s work combines deep research with personal insight—bringing new light to artists and movements that have shaped Aotearoa’s musical identity. Presenting the award, Suzanne De Spong, Senior Communications Advisor for New Zealand On Air said, “Music journalists are vital in helping New Zealand artists gain the recognition they deserve and play a key role in keeping our music industry thriving. Which is why NZ On Air is very proud to be sponsoring the NZ On Air Outstanding Music Journalism Award for the fourth year in a row.”
The Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award was presented to SHIHAD for their groundbreaking album Killjoy (Wildside Records, 1995). A cornerstone of New Zealand’s rock legacy, Killjoy continues to resonate with both fans and musicians. While presenting the award, Murray Cammick said: “What’s so special about Killjoy is the energy it captured in its time. As the decades have passed, the songs from Killjoy have become the encores people look forward to.”
Event Highlights:
The ceremony featured performances by previous Taite Music Prize award winners, including Vera Ellen and JUJULIPPS, who joined forces with other artists to celebrate the achievements of the night. The hot ticket event, attended by over 450 IMNZ members and industry professionals, was a vibrant showcase of New Zealand’s rich musical heritage.
Government Officials were in attendance including Hon. Chris Bishop - a self-confessed SHIHAD fan, Green Party Co-Leader and MP for Auckland Central, Chlöe Swarbrick; long time Taites Award supporter and Reuben Davidson, MP for Christchurch East (Also Delaney's cousin) from the Labour Party.
Danica Bryant drops anthemic new pop-rock single ‘Buzz’ + announces debut album!
A driving pop-rock anthem with indie twists and turns, ‘Buzz’ narrates the thrill of getting ready ahead of a night out.
Listen to ‘Buzz’ HERE
Pre-save the album HERE
Te Whanganui a Tara indie-pop sweetheart Danica Bryant has today shared her latest banger ‘Buzz’ - a delectable taster off her debut album FEAST - out August 1!
A driving pop-rock anthem with indie twists and turns, ‘Buzz’ narrates the thrill of getting ready ahead of a night out. Danica Bryant’s clever songwriting and indie-pop edge are once again on display as she takes listeners on a dynamic journey through gentle acoustic guitar lines, to a gritty chorus, with a pounding rhythm section and dense instrumental layers.
“'Buzz' is about that magic feeling before a night on the town starts, when you feel untouchable surrounded by all your favourite people, and you're indulging in all the girly, fun rituals of makeup and drinks and gossip,” says Danica. “Looking exactly how you want to and being unapologetically yourself is the most fun way to experience the world, and I wanted to celebrate that freedom.”
Danica has already made waves across Aotearoa in 2025, with her recent single ‘Morals’ (TAHI FM, RollingStone AU/NZ, Tearaway), which joins her expansive discography and a growing list of achievements across the Aotearoa music scene - including support slots for the likes of Robbie Williams and Elton John!
Last year, her unapologetically queer single ‘Acid’ reached #2 on the Hot Aotearoa Singles Chart, and now ‘Buzz’ is joining the party as an exciting taste of what’s to come with her debut album FEAST - out August 1!
Pre-save the album HERE.
The infectious new track is also set to be joined by an epic new houseparty music video, featuring Danica’s friends and band, on April 23!
Dive head first into Danica’s powerful creative vision with her punchy new anthem of girlhood and self-expression, ‘Buzz’ - out now!
Follow Danica Bryant
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok | Youtube |Bandcamp | Spotify | Apple
“Deliciously sweet yet shockingly bitter” (Under The Radar), Danica Bryant is no ordinary songwriter. A pop-folk musician with a gritty rock edge, her songs sink their teeth into intense topics from celebrity culture and mental health, to gender dynamics and body possession. “All hard guitar and pain-filled howl” (The Hook NZ), this woman bites back. Danica’s 2020 debut EP CIDER landed her a placement in APRA’s prestigious Songhubs course, whilst follow-up singles ‘Heart Eyes’, ‘Ready to Bite’ and the NZ On Air funded ‘Libra’ saw her introduction to the NZ Hot Singles Chart. With her 2022 sophomore EP EGO DEATH, the success of recent singles ‘Acid’, ‘Morals’, today’s thrilling release, and her upcoming debut album, it is clear Danica Bryant’s inventive sound, personal lyrics, and rich vocals make her a treat for every season.
Club Ruby's 'Heartbreak Overtime' music video is out Good Friday
The Auckland pop-punk band are making a splash with their fresh music video out Good Friday, made with the support of NZ On Air. "It looks like we're working overtime when we should be at the pool," lead vocalist President Ruby (Jade Lewis) says.
Club Ruby's 'Heartbreak Overtime' debuted at #5 on Hot 20 Aotearoa Singles .
The Auckland pop-punk band are making a splash with their fresh music video out Good Friday, made with the support of NZ On Air.
"It looks like we're working overtime when we should be at the pool," lead vocalist President Ruby (Jade Lewis) says.
Directed by Ethan Alderson-Hughes, he captures dynamic underwater scenes and band antics poolside. The visuals plays upon the frustrations of a toxic relationship where one partner is left working “overtime” to save what’s already broken in a doomed relationship.
Across a gruelling 12-hour shoot, President Ruby accidentally swallowed "tons of chlorine to get that one lip-sync shot".
"Heartbreak Overtime" delivers Club Ruby’s signature mix of biting lyrics and high-energy riffs, recorded with Christian Tjandrawinata at his home studio and finalised at the iconic Roundhead Studios.
Club Ruby recently opened for Grapehouse at Ding Dong Lounge and just sold out their upcoming Movespace series Yellow Lamp Poetry Vol. Ruby.
““The music video inspiration was an organic creative process: from a last minute photo shoot at a friend’s pool, to the cover you see now that inspired the entire music video. We happened to get blazers for $2 from Geoff’s Emporium that was just about to close, so we threw them on the boys and the vision somehow came together: We’re working overtime in our business suits when we should be relaxing at the pool.” ”
About the single:
““We wanted to create a breakup anthem that’s sad, sarcastic, and danceable all at once,” says President Ruby. ‘Heartbreak Overtime’ captures the chaos of giving your all to someone who gives nothing back—but with a beat you can mosh to.”
“This song is dedicated to my ex who I stayed with way too long that it really felt like clocking in overtime, referring to the line “I guess it’s time and a half for me!”
Vice President Hon adds with a grin, “Anytime love has felt like working back-to-back double shifts at a thankless full-time job, this one is for you!””
Jackie Bristow Releases Rediscovered Acoustic Gem “When You’re Near Me”
Americana artist Jackie Bristow continues to unearth treasures from her Sydney Days series with the release of “When You’re Near Me,” available on all streaming platforms
Americana artist Jackie Bristow continues to unearth treasures from her Sydney Days series with the release of “When You’re Near Me,” available on all streaming platforms from April 16.
Originally recorded in the late ’90s in Sydney, the acoustic love ballad was produced by Matt Fell and Mark Punch, and mixed by Fell. The track showcases Bristow’s emotive songwriting and intimate vocal delivery, capturing the spirit of an artist at the very beginning of her musical journey.
“When You’re Near Me” was one of the first songs I ever wrote,” Bristow shares. “It started as a romantic love song and ended up as a tribute to a rare, lifelong friendship. Listening now, I hear a kind of innocence — but also a surprising depth, like I knew more than I realized. Performing it for the first time at a little Bondi wine bar called BB’s shaped me as an artist and built the foundation for the path I’m still walking today.”
The song also featured on the long-running Australian TV series Home and Away, marking one of Bristow’s earliest sync placements.
The new single follows the warmly received “Letter of Love,” the first track in the Sydney Days collection — a series of unreleased songs rediscovered from Bristow’s time living and recording in Australia.
Stream “When You’re Near Me” here: https://music.drm.co.nz/when-youre-near-me
More info and exclusive content for Patreon supporters: https://patreon.com/JackieBristow
TîMMY Unveils New Single "SCARED" Ahead of Upcoming EP, The Source, Releasing July 4
Rising artist TîMMY is set to release his highly anticipated single, "SCARED" on April 18 the lead track from his upcoming EP, "The Source", out July 4.
Rising artist TîMMY is set to release his highly anticipated single, "SCARED" on April 18 the lead track from his upcoming EP, "The Source", out July 4. The EP’s release will be accompanied by an exclusive live showcase with the “London street band”, bringing the music to life in an immersive experience.
Musically, “SCARED” is a bold fusion of Afropop, RnB, Rap, and Amapiano**, reflecting TîMMY’s genre-blending artistry. Built on soulful melodies, dynamic drum patterns, and a hypnotic log drum groove, the track features Will on saxophone, adding a jazzy touch, and Keith Kugo providing rich backing vocals. Producer tinaye helped shape the song’s final sound, elevating its emotional depth and rhythmic energy.
Lyrically, “SCARED” dives into the struggle of overcoming self-doubt and fear, particularly the fear of failure and the vulnerability of being seen. TîMMY challenges the idea that falling should hold us back, instead embracing it as a natural part of growth.
“I wrote ‘SCARED’ when I was afraid to fully share who I was with the world,” says TîMMY. “I realized fear doesn’t define me, it's just part of the process. This song is about breaking through that fear, trusting your path, and knowing you’re not alone in the process.”
About “The Source”
The EP explores the journey of self-discovery, following a young man who initially seeks security in external validation but soon realizes that true strength comes from within. As he faces fear, judgment, and failure, he learns that his purpose is greater than his obstacles. Through personal storytelling and diverse musical influences, “The Source” captures the tension between uncertainty and faith, struggle and triumph.
Release & Live Showcase
“SCARED” will be available on all major streaming platforms on April 18. Fans can pre-save the track now and experience TîMMY’s live showcase on July 4, where he will perform “The Source” and other tracks alongside the London street band.
This release marks a major milestone for TîMMY The First, as he continues to evolve and carve out his unique space in the music world.
About TîMMY
Born in Zimbabwe but raised traveling across the globe, TîMMY’s music is a reflection of his multicultural experiences. His exposure to diverse sounds, rhythms, and cultures has shaped his unique blend of Afropop, RnB, Rap, and Amapiano, creating a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Through his music, he explores themes of faith, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one’s true path.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timmythefirst1/profilecard/?igsh=OWNmY3gzZnQ1cnRx
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0aC29mlBzOMejpdU7AttC5?si=IiWDFX6uT_2XJSOttAvqMQ
JENNY MITCHELL ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM ‘FOREST HOUSE’ RELEASED MAY 16
New Zealand born and Melbourne based award-winning artist Jenny Mitchell is excited to unveil plans for the release of her fourth album ‘Forest House’ scheduled for May 16, featuring her new single ‘Heart Like A House’, out now.
NEW SINGLE ‘HEART LIKE A HOUSE’
WATCH VIDEO HERE
New Zealand born and Melbourne based award-winning artist Jenny Mitchell is excited to unveil plans for the release of her fourth album ‘Forest House’ scheduled for May 16, featuring her new single ‘Heart Like A House’, out now.
Recorded in Pirinoa, ‘Forest House’ was created with ARIA and Golden Guitar award-winning producer Matt Fell at the helm. The 12 track album features Jenny’s previous singles ‘Where The Water’s Cold’, ‘Square & Plain’ and the heartwarming ‘Sister’ (featuring her sisters, The Mitchell Twins) while listeners will find grit in ‘Wives Who Wait’ and insight into Jenny’s country roots in ‘No Cash, No Meal’.
Having created a set of songs that is intimate, emotional, heartbreaking and uplifting, Jenny was determined that her storytelling would reach a new level of quality and consistency on this release. Jenny explains, “Forest House is an album of songs that reflect everything that happens within the four walls of a house. The new beginnings, the leaving. The opening, closing or slamming of doors. The good, the bad, the nostalgic and everything in between. Produced by Matt Fell, Forest House was absolutely the best and most connected recording experience I’ve ever had. I spent months searching for a house that we (the band, my sisters, Dad and I) could all stay in and somewhere that would fit a DIY studio. I ended up finding the perfect spot, bunk beds and all, in rural Wairarapa in New Zealand and we spent a week there together, surrounded by beautiful birds and bush, bringing these songs to life.”
On her new single, described as the forthcoming album’s centrepiece, Jenny goes on to say, “Heart Like A House is inspired by how important it is to me to build a life in music that is welcoming and safe for my band and my team – which has largely been influenced by watching other artists carve their own paths that don’t necessarily fit the mainstream industry model. It’s also really influenced by my upbringing, in a family who have always kept welcoming and hosting as a core value.”
Jenny will celebrate the release of ‘Forest House’ with a run of Australian headline tour dates in July, with shows in Canberra, Bathurst, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Central Coast and Newcastle, with tickets on sale Tuesday 15 April. Listeners can sign up to the exclusive Forest House tour pre-sale now at: jennymitchell.co.nz/presale
The NZ Best Country Artist winner and two-time Golden Guitar nominee is currently on the road nationally opening for Kasey Chambers and is scheduled to perform at the Gympie Music Muster in August following the conclusion of her album tour.
“A musical journey told with depth & emotion, shared with beautiful musicians, heartfelt production and strong family connection.
‘Forest House’ is everything I love about Jenny Mitchell.”
Kasey Chambers
Sure Thing Agency presents
JENNY MITCHELL - Australian Album Tour 2025
Pre-sale: jennymitchell.co.nz
Tickets on sale Tuesday 15 April 2025
Premier Artists, Essence Music Group, ABC Country, and Double J Present
KASEY CHAMBERS
BACKBONE ALBUM TOUR 2025
WITH SPECIAL GUEST JENNY MITCHELL
Tickets via kaseychambers.com
April
Friday 11th The Cube, Campbelltown, NSW
Saturday 12th Dubbo RSL – Auditorium, Dubbo, NSW
Thursday 17th Darwin Entertainment Centre, Darwin NT
May
Thursday 1st Chaffey Theatre, Renmark, SA
Friday 2nd Woodville Town Hall, Adelaide, SA
Saturday 3rd Northern Festival Centre, Port Pirie, SA - LAST TIX
Saturday 10th Goldfields Arts Centre, Kalgoorlie, WA
Sunday 11th Esperance Civic Centre, Esperance, WA
Tuesday 13th Princess Theatre – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany, WA
Wednesday 14th Stage One – Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Bunbury, WA
Thursday 15th Astor Theatre, Perth, WA – SOLD OUT
Friday 30th Riverlinks Eastbank, Shepparton, VIC
Saturday 31st Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo, VIC
June
Sunday 1st Frankston Arts Centre, Frankston, VIC
Tuesday 3rd The Wedge Performing Arts Centre, Sale, VIC – SOLD OUT
Thursday 5th The Palms at Crown, Melbourne, VIC
Friday 6th The Palms at Crown, Melbourne, VIC – SOLD OUT
Saturday 7th The Play House – Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong, VIC
Friday 13th The Showroom, Twin Towns, QLD
Saturday 14th The Tivoli, Brisbane, QLD – SOLD OUT
Sunday 15th Empire Theatre, Toowoomba, QLD
CONNECT WITH JENNY MITCHELL:
Video Premiere - CAPTAIN FESTUS McBOYLE - THE PROSE AND CONS
This is a 45 minute multi- camera documentation of a solo show written for TAHI Festival and performed at BATS Theatre in Wellington. An historical piece dealing with McBoyle's back story, the myths and facts about Pirates, and the cold harsh reality of days of old.
Video Premiere set for Sunday, April 13th at 11am on Youtube.
This is a 45 minute multi- camera documentation of a solo show written for TAHI Festival and performed at BATS Theatre in Wellington.
An historical piece dealing with McBoyle's back story, the myths and facts about Pirates, and the cold harsh reality of days of old.
Cameo appearances by Miss Lucy Drawers and Ebenezer Strong - Song performance and comedic interaction
Filled to the brim with well-crafted songs and awe-inspiring tales of the sea and plenty of the usual cheek we’ve learnt to expect from this one-of-a kind ‘Punk Rock’ Pirate.
More fun than a squirrel up ya jumper!
The Ultimate Rotten Family Entertainer!
We look forward to you all joining us on the day!
Facebook Video Premiere Link - https://www.facebook.com/share/1AkfyP1JcE/
Thursday Collective release their debut gospel album
Hailing from Ōtautahi Christchurch, Thursday Collective is a group of 17 young songwriters between the ages of 18-25 who are passionate about Jesus and proclaiming the Word of God. Their unique individual backgrounds and creative minds bring a fresh flavour to the Christian/Gospel music scene.
Hailing from Ōtautahi Christchurch, Thursday Collective is a group of 17 young songwriters between the ages of 18-25 who are passionate about Jesus and proclaiming the Word of God. Their unique individual backgrounds and creative minds bring a fresh flavour to the Christian/Gospel music scene.
Thursday Collective’s professional experience include performing at Easter Camp in 2023 and 2024, singing at LifeFM’s Christchurch radio opening in 2023, performing their waiata at multiple churches throughout Christchurch and performing backing vocals on RNZ live sessions for Marley Sola in 2023.
Thursday Collective released their debut single “Nothing But Praise” in December 2023 followed by the release of their second single, “Heart Like David” in March 2024.
On Friday the 11th April, Thursday Collective will be releasing their debut album “7pm”. This album was produced and recorded at Mellow Studios by Marley Sola.
“7pm” is a soulful collection of 8 songs written over the past 3 years by all 17 songwriters that takes you on a journey of their faith and how they have learnt to express that through music.
Listen to “7pm” here.