Whaea G and Brian Baker release their first joint single, "Te Hikoi".

New Zealand Northland artists WHAEA G and BRIAN BAKER celebrate the release of their first joint single,
“TE HIKOI”.

This is Whaea Geraldine’s first foray into recording her songs and she is ably assisted in this task by the very experienced producer/guitarist Brian Baker. Together they have produced a work that is both uplifting and beautiful.

It’s become a family affair with Whaea G’s son Te Whakakotahitanga Jenkins consulting on the finer points of the language, and sister Millica with daughters Tracey and Natharlia providing backing vocals.

Whaea G is very active in the community, as a member of the White Rock Gallery (Kaipara Artists), as well as with Community Connections. As a Maaori Arts Designer and Kairaranga she designed a blending of two a Maaori designs, Tangorerewa, meaning precious like greenstone, and the two Tui birds, Piira rawa ko Tiira both representing hope. This work is now the Mural in the Paparoa Community Village Green. Whaea G is also an avid harakeke (flax) weaver and will be holding a Kairaranga (weaving) course in February 2024. Her beautiful wairua is one that allows many to be taught by her and to receive her aroha which has impacted on many people. The respect that others have for Whaea Geraldine can be seen everywhere she attends.

From Brian - “I attended the NZ Music Month Summit earlier this year and saw a presentation from members of Corrella about writing and recording a Waiata and the importance of having Te Reo Maori as a living language. I immediately realised that this could be a great way for Geraldine and I to collaborate on a song and that pathways existed to get the song out to people. It’s been an absolute joy to work with Geraldine to create “Te Hikoi” and we’re both blown away with the resulting recording.”

“TE HIKOI” is released on all digital platforms on the 3rd November 2023.

Brian Baker