New Zealand is a sovereign island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country has two main landmasses—the North Island, and the South Island —and around 600 smaller islands. Lorde,Anika Moa , Bic Runga, Kimbra are amongst some of the most successful names in music hailing from New Zealand. It might be a relatively small island, but New Zealand is world renowned for being a place of constant and varied surprise. It also has stunning topography, wonderful people and clement weather and then there is Manu Francois, New Zealand’s premier Experimental/Pop/Rap artist. His works are varied and soulful, from intelligent and gripping raps to soaring and worldly vocals over both electronic and acoustic music. Fusions and collaborations, the intense and the serene.
The National Post caught up with Manu Francois to talk his inspirations, music and the future.
What inspired me to get into music?
My father put me on the drums when I was 3, I’ve been musing all my life. Watching the rise and careers of some of the largest and most successful artists eg. Michael Jackson, Drake etc, I have fashioned my career to lead me to these heights.
How would I describe my music?
My music is varied and lifelike. Artistic expressions of feelings, thoughts, paths…
From moody and powerful guitar driven songs to spiritedly rap vocals and soaring melodies.
My music is a one stop shop!
What would I say is my recording and writing style?
I would say my recording and writing style is Experimental Modern.
Trying to knit in the depths and power of philosophy with the relatability of street slang. Taking my vocals soaring in a way sorely missed in today’s “I don’t care” type of musical attitude, side by side gritty raps, direct, sensitive and to the point.
Where would you like to see your music career in 5 years time?
In 5 years, I want to be up with the largest artists of the world.
Touring the world, playing all different sorts of shows, training, developing and getting paid properly.
There will be enough global interest to get me a solid deal to take care of wider distribution of my music.
Where to find my music?
My music is available anywhere online. All the streaming services, Music platforms. EG. Spotify, iTunes and all the other stores, Youtube and Soundcloud.As well as on my website www.manufrancois.com.
And many other platforms too, best to just search and find out!
For his latest release. Click here
Listen to Manu Francois on Spotify by clicking here
