Okay, Kiwi Swifties... let's have a chat. In what feels like the worst betrayal down under, New Zealand finds itself on the sidelines of Taylor Swift's 2024 Eras Tour, yet again. Yes, I know you've heard it—while our Aussie neighbors are basking in the glow of Swiftie joy, Kiwis are left clutching our concert tees, wondering, "what did we do to you, Taylor?" Of course, the financially capable ones have Air New Zealand on speed dial for a Taylor Swift afterparty in the sky––karaoke included! Who needs front row seats when you can belt out "Shake It Off" at 30,000 feet with a cabin full of fellow fans? But let us be real: not all of us can spare that cash. And let's not even dive into the shenanigans Ticketmaster is pulling on all Kiwis. Alas.
But let's not dwell on our FOMO for too long. Auckland's music scene is buzzing with anticipation as a stellar lineup of artists prepares to grace Kiwi shores. Forget about mass appeal; I'm talking about the crème de la crème of musical talent that promises to fill the void in your heart. So, while the Aussies might think they've got it all with their big celebrity concerts, we've got something even better—variety, charm, and a dash of friendly Tasman rivalry. Here are ten incredibly cool international artists making their way to Auckland that you absolutely must see. Because let's face it, the music scene in Auckland is way too eclectic to let a little thing like missing out on Taylor Swift get us down.
Cavetown - February 28, 2024
Cavetown, ah, the indie darling of the bedroom pop world. UK-based singer-songwriter-producer Robin Skinner has been melting hearts and soothing souls with gentle vocals, introspective lyrics, and a lo-fi aesthetic that feels like a warm hug for years. Cavetown isn't just making music; he's crafting a safe space for listeners, weaving tales of mental health, identity, and the intricacies of human emotion into melodies. Cavetown's approach is disarmingly honest, peppered with a charm and vulnerability that's as refreshing as it is rare in today's music scene.
Cavetown will perform on February 28, 2024 at The Powerstation, Auckland at 20:00.
P!NK - March 8-9, 2024
P!NK, whose real name is Alecia Beth Moore, is a punk rock goddess turned pop powerhouse with a career spanning more than two decades, and she's nowhere near hitting the brakes. With her striking voice, acrobatic live performances, and gritty, rebellious spirit, P!NK has carved a niche for herself in the music industry. She's an advocate, a rule-breaker, and one of the most popular artists who isn't afraid to tackle tough topics in her songs, from mental health to feminism and everything in between.
P!NK will perform at the Summer Carnival 2024 on March 8-9, 2024 at Auckland's Eden Park at 17.00. In Dunedin, P!NK will perform at Forsyth Barr Stadium also at 17:00.
Angélique Kidjo - March 9, 2024
Angelique Kidjo is a force of nature, a whirlwind of musical mastery that crosses continents and genres with the ease of a breeze. This Beninese powerhouse is more than just a singer; she is a songwriter, activist, and GRAMMY magnet who has won more GRAMMYs than you can count on one hand. And her music? It's a vibrant tapestry of West African traditions, American R&B, funk, jazz ,and whatever else she feels like mixing. Angelique doesn't just play music, she lives it, breathes it, and uses it as a tool for change, advocating for women's rights and education across Africa.
Angélique Kidjo will perform on March 9, 2024 at the Auckland Town Hall at 17.00.
PointFive - March 2, 2024
PointFive, which has been lighting up the Sri Lankan music scene since 2012, is a pool of talent, a melting pot of genres, and a beacon for the youth. With nine members each bringing their unique flavour to the mix, they have both a unique setup and a one-of-a-kind sound. They are fronted by Nadeemal Perera and Dilmin Perera, along with Sajitha Anthony and Vinuja Tharushka, who are causing a sensation and setting stages on fire with their energetic style.
Nura Wasanthe / PointFive will perform on March 2, 2024 at the Bruce Mason Centre at 18.00.
DakhaBrakha - March 14, 2024
With DakhaBrakha, you're getting more than a concert. This live show doubles as a cultural experience: a journey through the heart of Ukraine's musical heritage, reimagined for the world stage. Their music is a call for cultural exploration–a celebration of diversity and a testament to the power of creative fusion. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to experience DakhaBrakha, where every performance is an adventure into the soul of world music.
DakhaBrakha will perform on March 14, 2024 at the Auckland Town Hall at 20:00.
ITZY - March 21, 2024
Fierce K-pop quintet ITZY burst onto the scene with a bang in 2019 and quickly became the talk of the town. With their catchy tunes, sharp choreography, and empowering messages, Ryujin, Lia, Yeji, Chaeryeong, and Yuna are redefining what it means to be "All in Us", the slogan that sums up their commitment to showcasing diverse identities and strengths. Their global appeal isn't just due to their music; ITZY's members embody a spirit of youthful rebellion and resilience.
ITZY will perform on March 21, 2024 at the Spark Arena at 18:30.
Tango Bardo - April 10, 2024
Hailing from the heart of Argentina, Tango Bardo is a tango ensemble that embodies the soul and essence of traditional tango music while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary twist. This group captures the spirit of Buenos Aires with bustling streets and intimate milongas, bringing a rich history to the modern audience. Through their performances, they continue to affirm tango's place both in the heart of Argentina and on the international stage, captivating audiences with the timeless story of tango's enduring romance and lyricism.
Tango Bardo will perform on April 10, 2024 at the Auckland Town Hall at 18:00.
Jungle & Lord Echo (DJ Set) - May 15, 2024
Jungle, a modern soul music collective from London, and Lord Echo, a talented New Zealand producer known for his eclectic mix of soul, reggae, and electronic music, represent two vibrant points of modern music. Jungle, formed by Tom McFarland and Josh Lloyd-Watson (J and T), burst onto the scene in 2013 with their distinctive sound that combines funk, soul, and modern beats, creating an immersive and groove-filled listening experience. Jungle and Lord Echo exemplify the fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, bringing fresh sounds to their respective genres.
Jungle and Lord Echo will perform on May 15, 2024 at the Spark Arena at 19:00.
Thirty Seconds to Mars - September 19, 2024
Formed in 1998, this American band quickly rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 2002, but it was their second album, A Beautiful Lie (2005), that catapulted them to worldwide fame. Known for their anthemic choruses, concept albums, and energetic live performances, Thirty Seconds to Mars have become synonymous with a blend of alternative rock, space rock, and experimental music. The band, led by the ever-charismatic Jared Leto and his brother Shannon Leto, carved a unique niche for themselves in the world of rock music.
Thirty Seconds To Mars will perform on September 19, 2024 at the Spark Arena at 19:00.
Coldplay November 13-16, 2024
Yes! Coldplay is coming to Auckland. Beyond their musical achievements, Coldplay is renowned for their activism and philanthropy, utilizing their platform to advocate for social and environmental causes. Their innovative approach to touring, with an emphasis on sustainability, and their commitment to giving back through initiatives like supporting educational and environmental charities, reflect the band's dedication to making a positive impact in the world.
Coldplay will return to Auckland to perform as part of their Music Of The Spheres World Tour on November 13-16, 2024 at 17:00 in Eden Park. Tickets are almost sold out, so don't wait to grab yours.
Better than revenge, New Zealand, indeed, has heaps of incredible artists coming to Auckland in 2024. But my dear Aussies, none of this is about bad blood. If you, or anyone else reading this, happen to be in New Zealand's largest city, don't miss out on some more great music. Fair dinkum? We'll keep you posted!
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