Music Industry News

‘Hine Mokemoke’ is the new waiata from artists TAWAZ, Jordyn With a Why, Mārei, MĀ, Chase Woods, Henare Kaa of Dillastrate, and Kings – members of artist collective MANU TAUPUNGA. From participating in Waiata Anthems to this new venture, these artists proudly announce the Matariki release of their new musical collaboration.

The waiata is the labour of a 48-hour collaborative songwriting intensive made possible through the support of NZ On Air, Manu Taupunga ki Ruātoki, that saw seven ‘city-slicker’ Māori artists ‘go bush’.

In late May, ngā Manu Taupunga ventured into the heart of Te Urewera, guided by Tūhoe ‘artivist’ Tame Iti and music legend Whirimako Black. Guided by music producer and Tūhoe son, Kings, the seven artists then crafted a waiata inspired by the essence of their exploration into te taiao and its cultural connection to Matariki.

“‘Hine Mokemoke’ is that lonely little voice inside of us who cries out for real connections and longs for genuine relationships with one’s land and people – those present and those who are now shining down on us, up in the sky. Like Matariki and the stars, allow ‘Hine Mokemoke’ to guide you back to your whenua, to your people, to your whakapapa.” – TAWAZ