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

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.

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.

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.

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.