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The Eighth Note: RANEA

‘The Eighth Note’ is 8 quick Questions with Wellington Musicians.

A chance for us to catch up with people & see what they’re up to, or introduce you to a new musician/band and their music.

Today’s guest is RANEA.

Who are you? Tell us a bit about your music:
RANEA is a talented recording artist and composer in both Māori & English. I hail from Rātana Pā. I am a passionate performer and adept on a variety of musical instruments, including trombone, harmonica, keyboard and guitar. My brand of music is Māori language reggae, jazz, rock and is self-described as ‘māramatanga’ music inspired by the prophecies of the Māori prophets.

What have you been working on lately? Any new tracks or albums on the way?
I have completed two music videos which are due to air on television this summer. I have also recorded a single entitled Matariki, planned for release June of this year.

Where is the best place people can follow you & find your music?
On my Facebook page RANEA. You can purchase my Vodafone award winning album Tihei Mauri Ora on iTunes.

What were the 3 most influential albums to you growing up?
Kind of Blue (Miles Davis), Survival (Bob Marley and the Wailers), Surfing with the Alien (Jo Satriani).

Which other Wellington musician (s) would you most like to work with?
Hollie Smith and Bella Kalolo.

What’s your favourite Wellington venue to play in?
Magic Gardens.

In your songwriting or composing (or the band’s songwriting) how do the compositions and songs take shape?
Sometimes a melody, a hook, a word or phrase will present itself through general conversation, dreams, or spontaneous ‘nature’ music. The intonation, tone, rhythm of speech sometimes creates its corresponding melody. These are the building blocks that nurture an organic process. Experimenting with a variety of genre that best conveys the purpose and key message of the song helps to create and define the arrangement. Performing the song live, testing the harmonies and key changes helps to refine the composition.

Where/when is your next gig?
Magic Gardens Wellington, 14 Jan, and Waitangi Waititi Auckland 06 Feb, with Southside of Bombay.


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