Music Industry News

Multi-faceted, queer Māori performance artist ARDON ENGLAND is solidifying his space in the dance music space through unapologetic self-expression, and new single ‘Plastic’ does just this!

Featuring rising Māori rap star Krisy Erin, ‘Plastic’ blends together sounds of hip hop, house, and ARDON’s unique vogue sound into the ultimate dance floor groove. Exploring ever-present stigma surrounding the world of cosmetic enhancements, ARDON is delivering a strong message of bodily autonomy through this new single.

“The song delves into the contemporary era where enhancements and modifications are prevalent,” ARDON explains. “In a world quick to judge, ‘Plastic’ advocates for the autonomy to make choices about our bodies.”

‘Plastic’ is the third single from ARDON ENGLAND (Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Ati Awa, Kahuranaki), who is already proving to span an eclectic range of genres. Following on from his 2023 techno-house releases ‘F.E.M Man’, and debut ‘Leather Daddy’, ARDON describes ‘Plastic’ as the ‘love child’ of house music and rap.

“Much like my musical journey, ‘Plastic’ represents the seamless blend of diverse influences. Offering a unique combination of electronic beats and energetic rap, it’s a fusion I feel is not commonly explored.”

The track features rising Aotearoa hip hop star Krisy Erin, who has made waves in the local hip hop scene, on social media and, most recently, the first Māori wahine rapper to be on the 2024 One Love lineup. Bringing her own flare and slick rap verses to the track, ARDON says the collaboration was a dream come true, and that the rapper had jumped on board with a “resounding YES!”

Listeners won’t be able to help but hit the dancefloor to ‘Plastic’. With its fusion of genres and unapologetic spotlighting of a topic often stigmatized, this new single captures the creative essence of ARDON ENGLAND – bold, new and exciting! More of this defiant approach and electric sound can be expected on the performer’s upcoming debut EP, set for release this NZ Music Month, May 2024. “Anticipate surprises,” says ARDON, “I thrive on keeping the audience guessing and defying predictability.”

Check out all things ARDON ENGLAND below:
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Photo credit: Alexis Petit

A dynamic, queer, Māori creative, ARDON ENGLAND has represented Aotearoa as a dancer & worked alongside some of our best dancers, entertainers & choreographers. He released his debut single ‘Leather Daddy’ early 2023, followed by single ‘F.E.M Man’. The release of ‘Plastic’ continues to build anticipation for an exciting deut EP in 2024. Since ‘Leather Daddy’, ARDON has been gathering enthusiastic listeners across the country and making a name for himself in the Aotearoa music community. His music is inspired by his own experiences as a queer person in Aotearoa, and he aims to be the diverse, queer & inclusive representation in NZ’s House/Dance & electronic music scene.