"HAWAIKI" - Ruia

Ruia
  • artist:Ruia
  • release year:2004
  • style(s):Reggae, Songwriter
  • country:New Zealand
  • formats:CD (Compact Disc)
  • record posted by:Maorimusic.com
  • label:Tangata

http://www.ruia.co.nz

Ruia Aperahama is a gifted singer/songwriter comfortable in traditional Maori or contemporary musical environments.... I sometimes switch between the two onstage, whenever the feeling takes me, its fun.

Ruia’s style could be categorised broadly as reggae, but strong jazz and pop influences abound. Cultural and family background has given Ruia creative flexibility, a distinct advantage when it comes to writing tunes based on traditional chants blended with catchy choruses and melodies....I enjoy writing songs in both languages, Im at ease with it and it comes naturally.

Ruia has written, recorded and released songs as lead vocalist and composer with groups such as Southside of Bombay, penning the top five gold selling hit What’s the Time Mr Wolf highlighted in the infamous Once Were Warriors feature film.

Ruia has also composed and performed for Moana and the Moahunters on Tahi, Rua and Toru albums..... I’ve shared quite a few of my songs with Moana for her albums.

Ruia is the leading instigator of the Prophecy music project, showcased at WOMADelaide, WOMAD Aotearoa, 2000 Olympic Festival of the Dreaming in Sydney, and the Vancouver Folk Music Festival.

This show was presented in 2003 at the Cultural Olympiad in Greece.... Greece (as part of a cultural event building up to the Olympics) was a wonderful experience and one I learnt a lot from…I got a further introduction to the international stage, and I’m looking forward to doing some more shows overseas in 2004.

Ruia and twin brother Ranea released the album Whare Mäori in late 2000, finalist in Best Maori Album category at the New Zealand Music Industry Awards. 2 concept albums followed, Waiata of Bob Marley Volume 1 and 2 released in 2001 and 2002, Volume One received the Tui Award for Best Maori Language Album.

Ruia’s debut solo original album Hawaiki has won Best Maori Album at the NZ Music Awards.

Ruia also won the APRA Silver Scroll Maioha Award for the best Maori Language Composition in 2004. The song was E Tae from the Hawaiki album.

Ruia was also recognised internationally, gaining honourable mention in the World Music Category of the International Songwriting Competition.

I’ve recorded two original albums now and each one has been a valuable learning experience, and I plan to record my next album in English later in 2005. My musical ability is a gift from God, plain and simple, and I am always happy to share my music with whoever wants to listen.

http://www.ruia.co.nz