New Zealand, also known as Aotearoa, has a vibrant and diverse music scene that continues to produce incredible talent. In 2024, Kiwi artists are making waves both at home and internationally. Let’s take a look at 10 of the most famous New Zealand musicians who are dominating the charts and captivating audiences around the world.
1. Lorde
At the top of our list is the incomparable Lorde. Born Ella Marija Lani Yelich-O’Connor in 1996, Lorde burst onto the global music scene as a teenager with her hit single “Royals” in 2013. Since then, she has become one of New Zealand’s biggest international stars.
Lorde’s unique voice and introspective lyrics have earned her multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated worldwide fanbase. Her albums, including “Pure Heroine,” “Melodrama,” and “Solar Power,” showcase her growth as an artist and her ability to evolve her sound while maintaining her distinctive style.
In 2024, Lorde continues to be a major force in the music industry. Her thoughtful approach to fame and her commitment to artistic integrity have made her a role model for young musicians everywhere. Fans eagerly anticipate each new release, knowing that Lorde will deliver something fresh and thought-provoking.
2. Six60
Six60 has become a household name in New Zealand and is quickly gaining international recognition. The band, formed in Dunedin in 2008, blends rock, soul, and electronic elements to create a sound that is uniquely their own.
Named after the street address where the band members lived as university students, Six60 has a strong connection to their roots. Their music often touches on themes of identity, belonging, and the Kiwi experience.
With hit songs like “Don’t Forget Your Roots” and “Special,” Six60 has dominated the New Zealand charts for years. In 2024, they continue to sell out stadiums across the country and are making significant inroads in international markets. Their energetic live performances and catchy tunes have made them one of New Zealand’s most beloved musical exports.
3. Benee
Stella Rose Bennett, known professionally as Benee, represents the new generation of Kiwi pop stars. Born in 2000, Benee first gained attention with her 2019 single “Supalonely,” which became a global hit thanks to its popularity on TikTok.
Benee’s music blends elements of indie pop, R&B, and electronic music. Her quirky personality and relatable lyrics have endeared her to fans around the world. In 2024, Benee continues to push boundaries with her music, collaborating with international artists and experimenting with new sounds.
Despite her young age, Benee has already won multiple New Zealand Music Awards and has been recognized internationally. Her success shows that New Zealand continues to produce world-class talent in the pop music scene.
4. Stan Walker
Stan Walker first rose to fame as the winner of the seventh and final season of Australian Idol in 2009. Since then, he has become one of New Zealand’s most successful and beloved musicians.
Of Māori descent, Walker often incorporates his heritage into his music, singing in both English and te reo Māori. His powerful voice and emotional performances have made him a favorite on both sides of the Tasman Sea.
In 2024, Stan Walker continues to be a major presence in the New Zealand music scene. He has expanded his career to include acting and mentoring young artists. Walker’s journey, including his battle with cancer, has inspired many, and his music continues to touch hearts across the country.
5. L.A.B
L.A.B, short for Light Among Beings, has quickly become one of New Zealand’s most popular bands. Formed in 2015, the group blends reggae, blues, funk, and rock to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Led by brothers Brad and Stuart Kora, L.A.B has released multiple chart-topping albums and singles. Their song “In the Air” became an anthem in New Zealand, spending an impressive 27 weeks at number one on the singles chart.
In 2024, L.A.B continues to dominate the New Zealand music scene with their infectious grooves and powerful live performances. Their ability to cross genres and appeal to a wide audience has made them one of the most exciting bands to come out of New Zealand in recent years.
6. Jawsh 685
Joshua Christian Nanai, better known as Jawsh 685, represents the power of the internet in launching music careers. The young producer from South Auckland gained worldwide attention in 2020 with his “Savage Love” collaboration with Jason Derulo and BTS.
Jawsh 685’s story is particularly inspiring as he created his viral “Laxed (Siren Beat)” using basic equipment while still in high school. His success shows how talent and creativity can transcend traditional barriers in the music industry.
In 2024, Jawsh 685 continues to produce hits and collaborate with major international artists. His unique blend of Pacific Island sounds with modern production techniques has created a new and exciting subgenre that is gaining popularity worldwide.
7. Kimbra
Kimbra Lee Johnson, known professionally as Kimbra, has been a prominent figure in the international music scene for over a decade. Born in Hamilton, New Zealand, Kimbra first gained worldwide recognition for her collaboration with Gotye on the hit song “Somebody That I Used to Know” in 2011.
Since then, Kimbra has released several critically acclaimed albums that showcase her incredible vocal range and innovative approach to pop music. Her style blends elements of jazz, R&B, and electronic music, creating a sound that is uniquely her own.
In 2024, Kimbra continues to push boundaries with her music. Her experimental approach and willingness to take risks have earned her a dedicated fanbase and respect from critics around the world. Kimbra represents the artistic and creative spirit that New Zealand is known for in the music industry.
8. SXMPRA
Kalem Leo Tarrant, known professionally as SXMPRA, represents the new wave of Kiwi artists making waves in the global music scene. Born in 2000, SXMPRA has quickly risen to fame with his unique blend of trap, metal, and electronic music.
SXMPRA’s music, often described as “sigilkore” or dark trap, has found a dedicated audience both in New Zealand and internationally. His collaborations with other up-and-coming artists have helped to establish him as a key player in the evolving landscape of modern hip-hop and electronic music.
In 2024, SXMPRA continues to release music that pushes genre boundaries and challenges listeners. His success demonstrates the diversity of New Zealand’s music scene and its ability to produce artists who are at the forefront of global music trends.
9. Teeks
Te Karehana Gardiner-Toi, known professionally as Teeks, is a soul singer who has been captivating audiences with his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Of Māori descent, Teeks often incorporates elements of his culture into his music, creating a sound that is both timeless and uniquely New Zealand.
Teeks’ debut album “Something to Feel” received critical acclaim and established him as one of New Zealand’s most promising young artists. His powerful voice and emotional performances have drawn comparisons to soul legends like Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye.
In 2024, Teeks continues to grow his fanbase both in New Zealand and internationally. His music serves as a bridge between traditional soul and contemporary R&B, appealing to listeners of all ages. Teeks represents the soulful side of New Zealand’s music scene and shows that the country can produce world-class talent in any genre.
10. Aldous Harding
Hannah Harding, known professionally as Aldous Harding, rounds out our list with her unique brand of folk music. Born in Christchurch, Harding has gained international recognition for her haunting vocals and enigmatic stage presence.
Harding’s music defies easy categorization, blending elements of folk, psychedelia, and art rock. Her albums, including “Designer” and “Warm Chris,” have received critical acclaim for their innovative songwriting and Harding’s distinctive vocal style.
In 2024, Aldous Harding continues to be one of New Zealand’s most intriguing musical exports. Her performances, both recorded and live, challenge listeners and push the boundaries of what folk music can be. Harding’s success demonstrates the depth and diversity of New Zealand’s music scene.
Conclusion
The New Zealand music scene in 2024 is vibrant, diverse, and full of talent. From pop superstars like Lorde and Benee to soul singers like Teeks and experimental artists like Aldous Harding, Kiwi musicians are making their mark on the global stage.
These ten artists represent just a fraction of the incredible talent coming out of Aotearoa. They showcase the country’s ability to produce world-class musicians across a wide range of genres. From chart-topping pop hits to boundary-pushing experimental works, New Zealand’s music scene has something for everyone.
What’s particularly exciting about the current crop of Kiwi artists is how many of them incorporate elements of New Zealand’s unique culture into their music. Whether it’s singing in te reo Māori, incorporating traditional instruments, or simply telling stories that reflect the Kiwi experience, these artists are proudly representing their homeland on the world stage.