Triumphant Stars: Makayla and Haami Ignite the Stage at Waiata Māori Music Awards!
A Night of Glitz and Grit: Māori Music Awards Shine Bright
Darling, what a night it was at the Waiata Māori Music Awards, where the air was thick with nostalgia and the promise of the future. As stars aligned and legends shone, the ceremony left us all spellbound, reminding us of the rich tapestry of Māori artistry that has graced the stage and soundwaves through the decades.
Leading the charge was the mesmerizing music video for “Tū,” helmed by Tipene Harmer, featuring none other than the charismatic Hone Harawira. This visual masterpiece, intertwined with footage of the poignant Toitū Te Tiriti hīkoi, not only captivated hearts but also bagged the coveted award for the best music video by a Māori artist. Just how many awards can one video claim? Well, let’s find out!
Hailing from Palmerston North, TAWAZ, last year’s darling of the Aotearoa Music Awards, didn’t just stop at best Māori artist this time around. Oh no, he doubled down, snagging the accolades for both best song by a Māori artist and radio airplay song of the year for his stunning te reo Māori track. A marvellous feat that has local music lovers vibrating with pride.
Meanwhile, the reggae vibes of Ōpōtiki’s own Hori Shaw reverberated through the crowd as he was awarded the radio airplay song of the year by a Māori artist. And let’s not forget the emerging artist over 25 award, a delightful tie among Shane Walker, Ngatainui Ratu, and Rawhitiroa-really, can we call this a ‘battle of the band names’?
Before the festivities unfurled, the late great Wyn Anania was honored posthumously with the iconic contribution award. A spokesperson from the Waiata Māori Music Awards Trust remarked on Anania’s unyielding passion for Māori culture and his tireless efforts in preserving te reo Māori. Legacy, indeed, in every note!
The night took a poignant turn as it paid tribute to the beloved Toni Huata, whose passing earlier this year left a gaping hole in our hearts. With roots tracing back to the ’90s, Huata’s music was not just sound; it was a movement, notably marking a milestone with her collaboration on the first digitally recorded Māori language album, He Tohu Mauriora.
This night wasn’t just about winning; it was a celebration of heritage, creativity, and the unyielding spirit of Māori music. As the applause echoed and the lights dimmed, it became crystal clear-this is just the beginning of a glorious era. So, my darlings, keep your ears peeled; the rhythm of the silver screen continues to pulse with vibrant life!
Original Story https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/makayla-and-haami-score-big-at-waiata-maori-music-awards/JYOKGZWCNJDUJAXWUMODYNT4CM/
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