Recommended artists from New Zealand: Popular international singers and singer-songwriters

PacifierShihad

Shihad – Pacifier

Shihad, the legendary band that has led New Zealand’s rock scene for 36 years.

Since forming in 1988, they’ve relentlessly evolved their sound—rooted in thrash metal—into alternative and industrial territories.

Beginning with their classic 1999 release The General Electric, they’ve scored a remarkable six No.

1 albums on the NZ charts.

Their achievements have made them regulars at the NZ Music Awards, and in 2010 they were inducted into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame.

Their heavy, high-energy sound is sure to satisfy anyone craving powerful rock.

Heavenly Pop HitThe Chills

The Chills – Heavenly Pop Hit

The Chills are a rock band formed in New Zealand in 1980.

As pioneers of the “Dunedin Sound,” a style of indie pop music that emerged in the early 1980s, they are also known as a cult band with worldwide popularity.

This song was released in 1990 and became a hit in New Zealand, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and elsewhere.

Always On My MindTiki Taane

Tiki Taane – Always On My Mind (Official Music Video)

Tiki Taane stands out in New Zealand’s music scene.

An exceptional sound engineer, he’s also an artist who commands everything from dub and electronica to heartfelt acoustic sounds.

“Always On My Mind,” from his debut album Past, Present, Future released in October 2007, set a record by staying on the NZ charts for an impressive 55 weeks.

His multiple wins at the Vodafone NZ Music Awards attest to his talent.

His sound, rooted in Māori heritage, delivers emotion that transcends genre.

He’s the perfect artist for those who want to immerse themselves in a uniquely creative world.

SophieGoodshirt

Goodshirt – Sophie (Official Music Video)

From a shed in their backyard, Goodshirt reshaped New Zealand’s music scene.

They’re a rare band that blends the DIY spirit of indie rock with sun-drenched melodies reminiscent of the Beach Boys.

Their 2001 debut album, “Good,” went platinum, and the single “Sophie” hit No.

1 on the national chart in May 2002.

The song’s inventive one-shot music video won Best Video at the 2003 NZ Music Awards, showcasing the band’s creative talents.

If you love playful sounds and unforgettable melodies, this is a band you should definitely hear.

Dominion RoadThe Mutton Birds

The Mutton Birds – Dominion Road (Original Version)

Taking flight from Auckland’s music scene in 1991, The Mutton Birds are a band that blends the warmth of folk with the grit of rock.

They quickly rose to popularity with tracks like “Nature” from their 1992 debut album The Mutton Birds and “The Heater,” which topped the New Zealand charts.

At the 1993 New Zealand Music Awards, they swept major categories including Album of the Year.

Songwriter Don McGlashan’s storytelling reflects the landscapes and society of his homeland, and their music was also featured in Peter Jackson’s film The Frighteners.

Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in moving melodies and profound lyrics.

MaybeOpshop

Opshop – Maybe (Music Video)

A song by the rock band Opshop, formed in Auckland, New Zealand in 2002.

It was released as a single in 2007.

The track reached No.

3 on the New Zealand charts and was certified Gold.

The album that features this song, Second Hand Planet, reached No.

1 in New Zealand and earned Triple Platinum certification.

Counting The BeatThe Swingers

The Swingers – Counting The Beat – 1981 – Official Music Video

A funky rock-pop song that incorporates elements of the 1980s new wave sound.

It was released as a single in 1981 by the New Zealand rock band The Swingers.

The track reached No.

1 on the charts in New Zealand and Australia.