Music Industry News

A powerful and emotionally charged 10-track album dedicated to honouring the survivors and their memory of the 1864 massacre at Rangiaowhia is set to be released on the 21st of February 2024, the 160th commemoration.

Following single releases ‘Apakura’ and ‘Rangiaowhia’ the album entitled ‘Songs of Rangiaowhia’, brings together a talented group of artists; Mara TK, Raakai Whauwhau, Hawkins and Ria Hall with genealogical ties to the Rangiaowhia koorero. Serving as a voice for the voiceless, ‘Songs of Rangiaowhia’ sheds light on one of the hidden histories of our nation through the elevation of a story that belongs to the Ngaati Apakura tribe and their survival after the attempted massacre.

“This is an opportunity for us as an iwi to collectivise and put our stamp in the ground,” says Hall of the project, which hosts collaborations with Te Wharekura o Ngaa Purapura o Te Aroha, Te Haona Kaha Kapahaka, with notable features by Troy Kingi, Poihakena Reid and our maatanga reo experts Maria Te Aukaha Huata and respected elder and author Dr. Tom Roa.

Creatively, the album produced entirely by Mara TK upholds blended musical styles, heartfelt lyrics and enchanting melodies that inspire listeners to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of this history. While predominantly in Te Reo Maaori, the collection of songs aims to also connect with non-Maaori audiences to foster ally-ship while acting as a catalyst for meaningful conversations.

With a blended pot of genres: R&B/Soul, Reggae/Dub, Funk,/Gospel and a Ballad. The album showcases the diverse musical influences and talents from the artists involved, each contributing their unique style and vibe to create a captivating listening experience.

Additionally, the album boasts an impressive lineup of musicians who contributed their skills and creativity such as; Julien Dyne, Leonardo Coghini, Ben Turua, JY Lee, Dallas Reti Taukiri, Sale Leilua, Kaea Ruawai, Dan Waterson, Stallone D’Souza, Richard Pickard, Adrien Brown, Gin Papāli’i, Debbie Papāli’i, Ruby Papāli’i, Crystal Lin, LaCoco Sasa-Tepania, Molee Lauititi and Hannah Ress.

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