Famous New Zealander Singers

Lorde is a New Zealand singer and songwriter known for her unconventional pop music style and introspective songwriting. She signed with Universal Music Group in 2009 and gained recognition with her EP "The Love Club" in 2013, featuring the hit single "Royals." Her debut album "Pure Heroine" was a critical and commercial success. Lorde's second album "Melodrama" received widespread acclaim and topped the US Billboard 200. Her third album "Solar Power" showcased indie folk and psychedelic influences. Lorde has won Grammy and Brit Awards and has been recognized for her influence in the music industry.

Roseanne Park, known professionally as Rosé, is a Korean-New Zealand singer based in South Korea. She debuted as a member of the popular girl group Blackpink in 2016 after training with YG Entertainment. Rosé's solo career took off in 2021 with the release of her debut single album "R," breaking records and achieving international success. She has received numerous awards and accolades, including Guinness World Records and music awards. Rosé is highly regarded in the fashion industry and has made significant cultural impact, being recognized as a global icon.

Benee, a New Zealand singer and songwriter from Auckland, has achieved significant success in the music industry. Known for her catchy singles such as "Supalonely" and "Soaked," she has won multiple awards at the New Zealand Music Awards. With a string of successful EP releases and chart-topping singles, Benee has garnered international acclaim for her unique sound. Her debut album, Hey U X, further solidified her position as a rising star in the music scene. Continuously evolving and expanding her musical repertoire, Benee's talent and creativity have earned her recognition both locally and globally.

Neil Finn is a highly acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter and musician known for his work with bands Split Enz, Crowded House, and Fleetwood Mac. He has been praised as popular music's most prolific writer of great songs. Finn played a key role in Split Enz's transition to new wave pop, writing many of their hit songs. With Crowded House, he achieved international success with the song "Don't Dream It's Over". Finn has also released successful solo albums, collaborated on various projects, and contributed to film and television soundtracks.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa is a renowned New Zealand opera singer with a full lyric soprano voice praised for its warmth and vibrancy. She gained international recognition in 1971 for her performance in Mozart's Le nozze di Figaro. Throughout her career, she received accolades worldwide for her performances in works from various centuries and languages, particularly excelling in Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, and Richard Strauss. Te Kanawa's extensive discography includes chart-topping albums. In her later years, she focused on concerts, recitals, and mentoring young opera singers.

Hayley Westenra is a renowned New Zealand classical crossover singer known for her successful career in the music industry. Her debut album, Pure, achieved international acclaim by reaching the number one spot on the UK classical charts in 2003 and selling over two million copies worldwide. She holds the distinction of being one of the youngest UNICEF Ambassadors and has showcased her versatile vocal abilities by singing in multiple languages, including English, Māori, Italian, French, and Mandarin Chinese, among others.

Bic Runga is a renowned New Zealand singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist pop artist. With her debut studio albums hitting number one on the New Zealand Top 40 Album charts, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the music industry. Her song "Sway" from 1997 gained international success in countries like Australia, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Runga's talent and creativity have garnered her a loyal fan base both locally and abroad, solidifying her position as a respected and influential musician.

Brooke Fraser is a prominent New Zealand singer and songwriter who gained recognition after signing with Sony BMG in 2002. She released successful albums such as What to Do with Daylight, Albertine, and Flags, all debuting at number one on the RMNZ chart. Fraser achieved a number one single with "Something in the Water" and later released albums like Brutal Romantic, various compilations, and live albums. She also became a member of Hillsong Worship, winning a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance in 2018.

Ladyhawke, born Phillipa Margaret Brown, is a talented New Zealand singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her stage name inspired by the film 'Ladyhawke.' She began her music career as part of bands in Wellington and Australia before embarking on a successful solo career. Ladyhawke's debut album topped charts and she garnered recognition with multiple singles. She continued to release albums that showcased her artistry and musical evolution, solidifying her reputation as a breakthrough artist in the music industry.

Dave Dobbyn is a highly acclaimed New Zealand musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer with a prolific career spanning several decades. He initially gained recognition as a member of the rock group Th' Dudes before establishing himself as the main creative force behind the popular pop band DD Smash. Transitioning to a successful solo career, Dobbyn has released numerous solo albums and singles, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented artist in the music industry.

Jay Laga'aia is a versatile New Zealand-Australian actor and singer known for his international role as Captain Typho in the Star Wars films. With a strong presence in television, he has portrayed various characters such as Senior Constable Tommy Tavita in Water Rats, lawyer David Silesi in Street Legal, and Elijah Johnson in Home and Away. Additionally, he has appeared in children's TV series like Jay's Jungle and is a regular on Play School, showcasing his diverse talents and contributions to the entertainment industry.

Willy Moon is a New Zealand singer, songwriter, and producer known for his hit single "Yeah Yeah," featured in the Apple iPod advert and reaching number 26 on the UK Singles Chart in 2012. Moon's music blends elements of rockabilly, pop, and electronic genres, showcasing his unique style and sound. Despite his success in the music industry, Moon faced controversy during his time as a judge on The X Factor New Zealand, leading to his dismissal alongside his wife, Natalia Kills, due to their critical and offensive remarks towards a contestant.

Paul Lawrence Fuemana was a New Zealand singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame in the 1990s as a pioneer of his country's unique style of hip-hop. Leading the rap trio and joint music project OMC, his debut album "How Bizarre" and its lead single achieved global success. Fuemana's musical career was marked by both commercial and critical acclaim, although he faced challenges such as disputes with his record label and legal issues over royalties. He passed away in 2010 at the age of 40, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.

Gin Wigmore is a prominent New Zealand singer and songwriter known for her distinctive high-pitched and raspy voice. She gained recognition after being featured on the hit single "Brother" by Smashproof in 2009. Wigmore has released four successful albums - Holy Smoke (2009), Gravel & Wine (2011), Blood to Bone (2015), and Ivory (2018). Her albums have consistently topped the New Zealand Albums Chart, showcasing her talent and popularity in the music industry.

Alannah Currie is a versatile artist and activist based in London. She gained recognition as a former member of the pop band Thompson Twins, contributing as a lyricist, percussionist, and visual stylist. Throughout her 15-year tenure with the band, Currie co-wrote and recorded six studio albums, producing hits like "Doctor! Doctor!", "Hold Me Now", and "You Take Me Up." After leaving Thompson Twins, she co-founded Babble to create music without commercial pressures. Currie later transitioned to glass art and environmental activism, founding a women's anti-genetic engineering movement. In her current practice as Miss Pokeno, she creates disruptive art that blends joyful dissent with thought-provoking narratives.

Jon Stevens is a talented New Zealand singer known for his prominent roles in various bands and productions. He gained recognition as the lead singer of Noiseworks during 1986–1992, where he showcased his remarkable vocal abilities. Stevens further demonstrated his versatility by portraying Judas in a 1992 Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar. His career reached new heights when he took on the role of lead singer for the iconic Australian rock band INXS after the passing of their original lead singer, Michael Hutchence, from 2000 to 2003.

Savage is a prominent New Zealand hip hop recording artist and a member of the Deceptikonz hip hop group. He made history as the first New Zealand hip hop artist to achieve platinum certification for a commercial single in the United States. Savage's contributions to the music industry have been recognized with the creation of the "International Breakthrough" accolade at the Pacific Music Awards. Additionally, Savage has expanded his music career into the electronic dance music genre, achieving multi-platinum success with hits like "Freaks" and "Swing."

Wing Han Tsang, professionally known as Wing, is a retired singer originally from Hong Kong who later moved to New Zealand. Her unique singing style has been likened to that of Florence Foster Jenkins and Mrs. Miller, making her a notable figure in outsider music. Despite not conforming to traditional standards of vocal performance, Wing has gained a dedicated following for her unconventional approach to music. Throughout her career, she has captivated audiences with her distinct voice and individualistic approach to singing.

Tami Neilson is a renowned Canadian-born New Zealand country and soul singer/songwriter with a successful professional career. She has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2014 APRA Silver Scroll Awards, Best Country Song Award, and multiple wins for Best Country Album at the New Zealand Music Awards in various years. Additionally, she has been recognized as the Best Female Artist at the New Zealand Country Music Awards on multiple occasions. Tami Neilson's talent and dedication have solidified her reputation as a respected and accomplished artist in the music industry.

Jordan Luck is a prominent figure in the New Zealand music scene, known for his role as the former lead singer and songwriter of the rock band The Exponents. He has been recognized for his contributions to music, being inducted into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame and appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit. Luck continues to showcase his musical talent through his current band, The Jordan Luck Band, and has participated in various projects, including covering songs and touring the country.

Ray Columbus was a highly accomplished New Zealand singer, songwriter, and entertainer, known for his role as the lead singer of Ray Columbus & the Invaders. With a career spanning six decades, he achieved significant success in the music industry, winning the prestigious Benny Award. His most famous hit, "She's A Mod," solidified his reputation as a talented musician. Additionally, Columbus excelled as a television host and music manager, showcasing his versatility and passion for entertainment throughout his professional life.

Anika Moa is a talented New Zealand recording artist and television presenter. She rose to fame with the release of her debut studio album "Thinking Room" in 2001, which topped the New Zealand Albums Chart and spawned hit singles like "Youthful" and "Falling in Love Again." Moa's success began after competing in the Rockquest songwriting contest in 1998, which led to a recording contract. Her professional journey has been documented in films such as "3 Chords and the Truth: the Anika Moa Story" and "In Bed with Anika Moa."

Sanchez, also known as Shin Jae-min, is a talented rapper and singer from South Korea and New Zealand. He gained recognition as a former member of the popular hip hop boy band Phantom. With his unique style and musical abilities, Sanchez has made a name for himself in the music industry. His career has been marked by successful collaborations and solo projects, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Sanchez continues to captivate audiences with his dynamic performances and innovative music, solidifying his status as a respected figure in the music scene.

Boh Runga is a renowned New Zealand recording artist known for her impactful contributions to the music industry. As the lead singer and guitarist of the New Zealand rock band Stellar, she showcased her exceptional talent and creativity. With a successful career spanning years, Boh has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and impressive guitar skills. Her musical prowess and distinctive style have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the music scene, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

Anne Crummer is a renowned New Zealand pop singer and songwriter of Cook Islands heritage. With a successful career spanning decades, she has achieved recognition both as a solo artist and as a member of multiple musical groups. Known for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, Crummer has garnered widespread acclaim for her contributions to the music industry. Her versatile talent and ability to connect with audiences have solidified her status as a prominent figure in the New Zealand music scene.

Hollie Smith is a highly accomplished New Zealand soul singer-songwriter hailing from Auckland. With four successful solo albums under her belt, including Long Player, Humour and the Misfortune of Others, Water or Gold, and Coming In From The Dark, she has consistently topped the RIANZ albums chart. This remarkable achievement solidifies her status as one of the most successful female New Zealand artists in the 21st century. Hollie's talent and dedication have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition in the music industry.

Joe Cotton is a versatile Canadian-born New Zealand pop singer known for her time in the girl group TrueBliss, formed in 1999 on Popstars. Apart from her successful music career, she has also been a part of the cover band The Mermaids Danceband. Joe has showcased her talent as a radio presenter for More FM and The Edge, further expanding her reach in the entertainment industry. With a diverse range of experiences in singing, performing, and broadcasting, Joe Cotton continues to make her mark in the music and media scene.

King Kapisi is a prominent figure in the New Zealand hip hop scene, recognized for his innovative music and lyrical prowess. He made history by becoming the first hip hop artist in New Zealand to win the prestigious Silver Scroll Award for Songwriter of the Year in 1999, showcasing his talent and creativity. His single "Reverse Resistance" was a standout track that solidified his reputation as a skilled and influential recording artist. King Kapisi continues to make a significant impact on the music industry with his unique style and contributions.

Aaradhna, known by the mononym Aaradhna, is a prominent New Zealand singer, songwriter, and musical recording artist. She first gained recognition in 2004 with her debut on the single "Getting Stronger" with the group Adeaze, which achieved significant success, reaching number one on the official New Zealand Singles Chart. Throughout her career, Aaradhna has continued to captivate audiences with her soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, establishing herself as a respected figure in the New Zealand music industry.

Kings, a New Zealand artist, is a versatile rapper, record producer, singer, and songwriter. Since 2018, he has been actively creating music under his independent label, Arch Angel Records. Notably, Kings achieved significant success with his 2016 hit "Don't Worry Bout' It," which became the longest-running No. 1 single in New Zealand. His dedication to his craft and ability to blend various musical genres have solidified his status as a prominent figure in the New Zealand music scene.

Scribe, a New Zealand rapper of Samoan descent, gained fame with his debut album, The Crusader, released in 2003. The album achieved two solo number ones on the singles chart and was certified four times platinum. Scribe also topped the charts as a featured artist on songs like P-Money's "Stop the Music" in 2004 and J.Williams' "You Got Me" in 2010. His successful collaborations and chart-topping hits solidified his position as a prominent figure in the New Zealand music scene.

Microdot, known for his stage name, is a prominent South Korean-New Zealand rapper and singer. He made his debut as part of the duo All Black alongside Dok2 in 2006. Throughout his career, Microdot has showcased his talent on popular music shows like Show Me the Money, Unpretty Rapstar, and Tribe of Hip Hop. With a strong presence in the music industry, he continues to captivate audiences with his unique style and contributions to the hip-hop scene.

Yulia, a Russian-born New Zealand classical crossover singer, has achieved significant success in her professional career. Her first solo album, Into The West, quickly went platinum in New Zealand, earning her two NZ Music Awards. Yulia has supported renowned artists like Amici Forever and Russell Watson on sold-out tours in Tokyo. Her albums, Into the West and Montage, produced three top 40 radio hits in New Zealand. Yulia was the first female vocalist in New Zealand to have two consecutive number one hit albums, showcasing her versatile voice described as a "lovely rich contralto with passion and conviction."

Joe Champness is a versatile professional footballer and rapper known for his skills as a winger. He currently plays for Auckland FC and the New Zealand national team. Champness originally hails from New Zealand but was raised in Australia. In 2021, he made the switch to represent New Zealand in international competitions. With his dynamic playing style and creative abilities on and off the field, Champness continues to make a significant impact in the world of football and music.

Heather Begg was a New Zealand-born operatic mezzo-soprano known for her versatile artistry and comedic talent. She achieved international acclaim for her performances in leading roles such as Carmen in Bizet's opera, Amneris in Verdi's Aida, and various roles in lighter operas like The Gondoliers. Begg's career spanned across the United Kingdom and Australia, where she captivated audiences with her powerful voice and engaging stage presence. She was recognized as a gifted performer who brought depth and charisma to her portrayals on the opera stage.

Che Fu, also known as Che Kuo Eruera Ness MNZM, is a renowned New Zealand singer, songwriter, and producer. He gained initial fame as a founding member of the band Supergroove before embarking on a successful solo career. Che Fu has achieved significant commercial success, selling thousands of albums both in New Zealand and globally. He is widely recognized as a pioneering figure in the New Zealand music scene, particularly in the realms of Hip hop and Pasifika music, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.