Women in NZ Music: Rising Stars

Last Updated on February 28, 2024

Introduction

Women have made remarkable contributions to New Zealand’s vibrant music industry, showcasing their talent, creativity, and passion.

In this blog post, we aim to shine a spotlight on the rising female stars who are making waves and leaving an indelible mark on the music scene in NZ.

From soulful singers to dynamic instrumentalists, female musicians across genres are captivating audiences with their powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics.

Their music resonates with listeners, transcending boundaries and inspiring others with its authenticity and emotional depth.

Through this post, we celebrate the diversity and richness of talent among female artists in New Zealand.

We will explore the unique sounds and styles of these rising stars, sharing their stories, achievements, and upcoming projects.

Whether they are breaking new ground in pop, rock, hip-hop, or electronic music, these women are pushing boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and carving out their own paths in the industry.

Their creativity, resilience, and determination serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and fans alike.

Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the rising female stars who are shaping the future of New Zealand’s music landscape.

Let us celebrate their talent, amplify their voices, and support their continued success in the dynamic world of NZ music.

Overview of NZ Music Industry

• The music industry in New Zealand is vibrant and diverse, with a rich history of talent.
  
  
• Female artists have faced numerous challenges in the past, including lack of representation and gender bias.

Emerging Female Artists in NZ

1. Kaaterama, a Maori singer-songwriter, brings her unique blend of indigenous sounds and contemporary lyrics.
   
   
2. Gin Wigmore, known for her powerful vocals, has released several successful albums and has won multiple music awards.
   
   
3. Nadia Reid, a folk singer, has garnered attention for her heartfelt lyrics and introspective songwriting.
   
   
4. Kimbra, a pop artist, gained international fame collaborating with Gotye on the hit track “Somebody That I Used to Know.”
   
   
5. Marlon Williams, a male artist, often collaborates with female artists and recognizes their immense contributions to the music scene.

Read: NZ Artists’ Paths: Education to Success

Indie and Alternative

Indie and alternative rising stars in the New Zealand music scene have been making waves in recent years.

One notable artist is Aldous Harding, known for her unique folk-infused sound and captivating performances.

Another rising star is Stella Bennett, better known as BENEE, who gained international recognition with her hit single “Supalonely.”

These artists have achieved great success, with Aldous Harding being nominated for the prestigious Taite Music Prize, and BENEE winning multiple New Zealand Music Awards.

Pop and Mainstream

New Zealand has also seen the rise of talented female pop stars who have made a significant impact on the industry.

Lorde stands out as one of the most successful pop stars to come out of New Zealand.

Her debut single “Royals” topped charts worldwide, and she has since released critically acclaimed albums, earning numerous awards along the way.

Other rising stars in the pop genre include Broods, a brother-sister duo known for their infectious melodies and emotive lyrics.

These female pop stars have not only achieved commercial success but have also played a crucial role in shaping the pop music landscape in New Zealand and beyond.

Hip Hop and R&B

The hip-hop and R&B genres have also witnessed the emergence of talented female artists in New Zealand.

JessB is one such artist who has gained attention for her sharp lyricism and infectious energy.

With tracks like “Bump Bump” and “Set It Off,” she has carved her own niche in the male-dominated world of hip-hop.

Another rising star is Vayne, an R&B artist known for her soulful vocals and captivating stage presence.

These female artists are breaking barriers in the hip-hop and R&B scene, gaining recognition for their skills and attracting a growing fanbase.

On a final note, women in the New Zealand music industry are rising stars across various genres.

Indie and alternative artists like Aldous Harding and BENEE, pop stars like Lorde and Broods, and hip-hop/R&B artists like JessB and Vayne are making significant contributions and leaving a lasting impact.

These talented individuals showcase their achievements through their unique styles, memorable songs, and growing fanbases.

As their presence continues to grow, their contributions to the music industry become impossible to ignore.

Read: Grants for NZ Musicians: A Guide

Support Networks for Women in NZ Music

Organizations and Initiatives

1. Music Managers Forum NZ provides support and resources for female managers in the industry.
   
   
2. Girls Rock! Aotearoa is a non-profit organization that empowers young women through music education and mentorship.
   
   
3. Women in Music New Zealand fosters professional development and networking opportunities for women in the music industry.
   
   
4. Music Month provides a platform for women musicians to showcase their talent and gain exposure.
   
   
5. SoundCheck Aotearoa aims to increase visibility and representation of women and gender minorities in the music industry.

Workshops, Mentorship Programs, and Collaboration Platforms

1. Rock Camp for Girls offers workshops and mentorship programs to encourage girls to explore music.
   
   
2. The New Zealand Music Commission organizes workshops and seminars focused on various aspects of the industry.
   
   
3. The SoundCheck Series provides female musicians with opportunities to collaborate, perform, and gain industry insights.
   
   
4. Mentorship programs like the APRA AMCOS Professional Development Awards assist emerging women musicians.
   
   
5. The NZ Music Teachers Online platform connects female musicians with students seeking music lessons.

Read: NZ Music Festivals: Behind Scenes

Challenges and Opportunities

Lingering Challenges

1. Gender bias and unequal representation persist in areas such as festival lineups and music awards.
   
   
2. Women often face stereotypes, discrimination, and limited access to certain roles within the industry.
   
   
3. The gender pay gap remains an issue, with women in the music industry earning less than their male counterparts.
   
   
4. Sexual harassment continues to be a concern, and women musicians may face intimidation or exploitation.
   
   
5. Underrepresentation of women in leadership positions hinders their ability to influence industry decisions.

Evolving Opportunities and Positive Changes

1. Increased awareness and activism have led to initiatives and organizations supporting women in the industry.
   
   
2. Digital platforms and social media have provided avenues for women to promote their music independently.
   
   
3. Inclusion riders and diversity quotas are being implemented to ensure fair representation at events and in media.
   
   
4. Collaborative efforts are being made by industry stakeholders to create safe spaces for women to share experiences.
   
   
5. Changing societal norms and discussions around gender equality are driving positive changes in the industry.

Read: Maori Music: NZ’s Rich Heritage

Conclusion

Recognizing and supporting women in the New Zealand music scene is paramount for fostering their growth, amplifying their voices, and ensuring equitable representation.

It is imperative that we celebrate the contributions and talents of female musicians across genres, styles, and backgrounds.

By actively seeking out and appreciating the music of rising female stars, we can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse music industry in New Zealand.

This entails attending concerts, streaming their music, sharing their work on social media, and championing their achievements.

Promoting diversity and equality in the music industry requires ongoing efforts to address systemic barriers and biases that may hinder women’s progress and opportunities.

This includes advocating for gender-balanced lineups at festivals and events, supporting initiatives that provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for women in music, and challenging gender stereotypes and discrimination in the industry.

By embracing and celebrating the diverse talents of female musicians in New Zealand, we can create a more vibrant, inclusive, and representative music community that reflects the rich diversity of voices and experiences in our society.

Let us all play a part in championing gender equality and empowerment in the New Zealand music industry.