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

All She WroteSIX60

SIX60 – All She Wrote (Official Music Video)

Six60 is a New Zealand band formed by friends from their university days.

Their music masterfully weaves together a rich mix of genres—reggae, soul, and drum and bass—embodying the very essence of Kiwi fusion sound.

Their debut album, Six60, released in 2011, became a phenomenal hit domestically, and signature tracks like “Don’t Forget Your Roots” have since become national anthems.

In addition to numerous wins at the NZ Music Awards, their popularity is undeniable, with feats like selling out a 50,000-capacity stadium in April 2021.

They also show respect for Māori culture, with some of their songs used in traditional ceremonies.

If you’re seeking grand, soulful music, their sound is a must-listen.

Woke Up Late ft. Hailee SteinfeldDrax Project

Drax Project – Woke Up Late ft. Hailee Steinfeld (Official Music Video) Starring Liza Koshy

Drax Project, a four-piece from New Zealand who leapt from the streets of Wellington to the world stage.

Elevating jazz technique into pop and blending R&B and hip-hop, their sound is distinguished by Shaan Singh’s saxophone, which heightens an urban mood.

Formed in 2014, they achieved global success with their 2017 track “Woke Up Late,” and won at the NZ Music Awards in 2018.

Their debut album, “Drax Project,” also received high acclaim.

They’ve created songs embraced as anthems for new challenges, and their groovy music is a must-listen for anyone seeking a heart-thumping rush of exhilaration.

Amazing GraceHayley Westenra

Amazing Grace

Hayley Westenra is a New Zealand-born soprano whose crystal-clear voice captivates audiences around the world.

Her signature style is an elegant classical crossover grounded in classical music while incorporating elements of pop.

Her international debut album, Pure, released in 2003, entered the UK classical chart at No.

1 and achieved the remarkable feat of selling over two million copies worldwide.

In Japan, it included songs used as TV drama theme tunes and won Album of the Year.

Her pure voice, with which she skillfully sings in Japanese as well, resonates deeply when you want to calm your mind or immerse yourself in grand, sweeping music.

April Sun In CubaDragon

Dragon – April Sun In Cuba

Dragon, the legendary rock band that shines in the music history of the Southern Hemisphere.

Formed in New Zealand in 1972, they boldly evolved their sound from progressive rock to pub rock and then to new wave.

Signature songs like 1977’s “April Sun in Cuba” and 1983’s Australian No.

2 hit “Rain” remain timeless.

Despite numerous lineup changes and hardships, they were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2008.

Central figure Todd Hunter has also composed for television series, showcasing his wide-ranging talents.

Perfect for anyone eager to experience the dramatic sonic world of a band that blazed through the eras.

Wandering EyeFat Freddy’s Drop

Fat Freddy’s Drop Wandering Eye (Official Video)

Fat Freddy’s Drop, a miraculous seven-piece born in the Southern Hemisphere’s paradise of New Zealand.

Building on dub and reggae, they blend in soul, jazz, and techno to create their signature “hi-tech soul.” Since forming in 1999, they’ve honed songs through a live, improv-driven approach.

Their 2005 album Based on a True Story, released on an independent label, debuted at No.

1 on the New Zealand charts and includes their signature track “Wandering Eye.” Showered with honors including Album of the Year, their music captivates with live heat and meticulous groove—perfect for listeners seeking a sound that transcends genre boundaries.

DowntimeKidz In Space

Kidz In Space – Downtime (Official Music Video)

Kids of 88, a pop/hip-hop unit from New Zealand that debuted with the unique concept of having come from outer space, deliver a catchy sound that fuses hip house and dance-pop.

Downtime, included on their August 2009 EP Episode 001: Chasing Hayley, became a hit and earned gold certification in their home country.

Their early performances in spacesuits drew attention, and they later evolved into a full band setup for more dynamic live shows.

If you enjoy the playful hip-hop of N.E.R.D.

or party-ready tunes like The Black Eyed Peas, they’re a perfect fit.

Take It AwayL.A.B.

L.A.B – Take It Away (Official Music Video)

Hailing from the southern-hemisphere paradise of New Zealand, L.A.B is a band that’s like a true kaleidoscope of sound.

With reggae as a laid-back foundation, they blend blues, funk, and soul into a seamless mix that invites listeners on a free-spirited musical journey.

Quickly rising to prominence after their 2017 debut, their song “In the Air” from the album L.A.B.

III became a major hit, reaching No.

1 on the New Zealand singles chart.

Their prowess is further proven by sweeping the four major categories at the Aotearoa Music Awards two years in a row, in 2021 and 2022.

If you’re looking to free your mind with genre-defying sounds or crave grooves that get your body moving naturally, L.A.B is the perfect fit.