Inspiring Journeys Through Music with Rei
Charting his own path, the musical journey of multi-talented artist Rei showcases his commitment to creativity and cultural relevance. His work is a dialogue with his listeners, a blend of beats and introspection that pushes the boundaries of the Aotearoa music scene. In this episode of ‘Inspiring Journeys Through Music,’ Rei navigates the intersections of music, culture and self-expression, giving us a glimpse into the inner workings of his artistic process and the journey of a musician striving to make an impact on both personal and professional levels.
Growing up in Te Whanganui-ā-Tara, Rei was raised in a musical household where his parents nurtured his passion for music. Reflecting on his upbringing, he balanced Pākehā schooling with a strong connection to te ao Māori through his mother's involvement in te reo classes and marae activities.
“I've had to do a lot of te reo reclamation, but I think it has turned into my strength. Because the fact that I have had to fight for my te reo learning, and I've had to put a lot of my own time and effort into learning te reo, has meant that it's just extra special for me to be able to sing in te reo.”
For Rei, staying in a creative space and constantly jotting down ideas is essential. Balancing administrative tasks with creative work, he sets aside dedicated time for music creation to maintain artistic flow. As an independent artist, he oversees every aspect of his music production, highlighting the importance of artistic integrity. He provides a glimpse into the extensive process of producing and promoting his music, from recording and mixing to marketing and distribution.
“It's funny, but in this day and age musicians can't just be musicians. Artists can't just be artists. We got to be content creators as well.”
For aspiring artists, Rei offers invaluable advice: "Always look at the spreadsheets. If you are with labels and stuff, always look at the spreadsheets, look at the deals, look at the fine print, because that stuff can be a lot of work. It's important."
He also recommends, "Learn to live cheaply. If you can't live cheaply, then it's going to be hard for you to be a musician, especially when you're starting out. You've got to be smart with your finances." He shares his own experience of working part-time jobs to cover basic expenses while pouring all of his leftover time into his craft.
In the dynamic world of music, Rei stands out as a visionary artist, pushing boundaries and challenging norms with his innovative approach. As he embarks on new projects and collaborations, his inspiring journey serves as a beacon of creativity and authenticity in an ever-evolving industry. Join host Alana Broughton for this captivating episode of ‘Inspiring Journeys Through Music’ with the remarkable Rei.
E mihi kau ana ki te tira tautoko i te kaupapa Puoro ki te Ao
Kaiuiui: Alana Te Piki Broughton
Kaitito, Kaipuoro: Rei
Te Tira Hanga Hōtaka Māori
Kaihautū Matua: Diana Marsh, Claire Szabó
Kaihautū Puoro Māori, Hanga Hōtaka Māori: Toni Huata
Kairuruku Hanga Hōtaka Māori: Kirsten Te Rito
Kaitohutohu Hanga Hōtaka Māori: Roger Smith
Kaiwhakahaere Whakatairanga: Leoné Venter
Kaiāwhina Hanga Hōtaka: Jonathan Engle, Sarah Ballard, Isobelle Walker, Yeonhee Lee, Grace Newman, Aisyah Dzulkiflee
He mihi nui ki te tira tautoko
Kaihanga Kiriata: The Renegade Peach Project - Mark Russell (Director, DOP, Editor) Arlo Edwards, Josiah Nevell (Camera Operators) and Tyler Andrews (Camera Assist)
Taupuni Hopuoro: Matrix Digital – Phill Adams, Simon Blackwell (Sound Engineers),
Kaiwhakatauira Whakanikoniko: IDIA – Johnson Witehira, Kimiora Whaanga (Graphic Designers)
Kaimanaaki, Kaitautoko: James Illingworth, Tracey Mackay
Ringa Whakapai Āhua: Michele Perry, Natalee Fisher
Kaikarakia, Kaitautoko: Adrian Tangaroa Wagner
He mihi nui ki te Manatū Taonga, nā rātou te pūtea tautoko
This film is supported by funding from Manatū Taonga | The Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
© Copyright Centre for New Zealand Music Trust
