For all of our comprehensive NZ Music Month coverage, head to the Rolling Stone New Zealand homepage.
To celebrate NZ Music Month, Rolling Stone AU/NZ asked a selection of musicians to name their favourite Aotearoa artists and explain what makes them so unique
Muroki has certainly left his imprint on this country’s music scene thanks to his sweet and breezy indie pop, highlighted in his latest EP Timezones. Now, the Kiwi/Kenyan artist is taking his talents to Berlin, booking a one-way ticket to pursue music overseas.
Sharing his excitement with fans on Instagram, he wrote, “I’m so excited to dive a little deeper in my music journey over there… let me know if you wanna link up and make music or just enjoy some German beer together.”
While it’s Aotearoa’s loss in terms of live performances (anyone who attended Muroki’s electrifying farewell gig at Galatos alongside 2024 Taite Prize winner Jujulipps last month can attest to that), there’s always room for new talent.
So when we asked Muroki about his current favourite New Zealand artist, it was no surprise that he singled out another young artist crafting tunes reminiscent of hazy, sun-drenched days. His pick?
Hamilton-born George VILLA, who burst onto the scene with his infectious debut single, “Running Free”, back in May of last year. Since then, VILLA, now based in Auckland, has quickly gained attention from well-known producers Dave Hammer (Lime Cordiale, Baker Boy) and Neil Macleod (Drax Project). Villa’s subsequent EP, Empty Pockets, features laid-back and groovy surf rock tracks, enriched by smooth verses from his good friend and local rapper and producer Rhys Rich.
In an interview with Rolling Stone AU/NZ upon the EP’s release, VILLA expressed his love for surf rock. “It just feels very authentic,” he states. “It’s never got that super polished sound. [Surf rock] has always been on that underground.”
Here’s why Muroki thinks everyone should tune in to George VILLA:
I’ve been listening to a brand new artist George VILLA. His first single “Running Free” has a modern-day Sublime feel, a perfect match for arvo beers in the sun with your friends.
