Maranga mai PACIFIC SUPERHEROES, rise up, rise up, local 274-Otara raised Young Sid (Ngapuhi/Cook Islands) has picked up an award for some hard grind and hustle with his debut album ‘The Truth’ (out in stores now).
Gotta give Sid his praises for doing what he knows best, and speaking ‘the truth’ that he knows. Mad hustle young brother, more strength to you and the pathways your building yourself. Another form of self determination, all the haters just watch and burn!
Congratulations to all the winners on the night, mean Waiata Maori Awards mean!
‘Young Sid (The Truth) has won the Best Māori Urban Artist, at the inaugural Waiata Māori Awards.
The awards, held at Hawkes Bay Opera House last week, honoured the achievements of traditional and contemporary Maori composers and performers.
Tangiwai and George Ria were recognised for their Lifetime Contribution to Māori Music and the Keeper of Traditions was awarded to Dr Piri Sciascia. A Music Industry Award went to Moana Maniapoto and Rim D Paul and the Iconic Māori Music Composers Award – (Historical) to Princess Te Puea Herangi.
Taisha has won the Best Maori Female Solo Artist and the Best Maori Song for ‘Karanga’ Taisha’s debut album Aonua is an original blend of Maori and English using Polynesian instruments, vocals and native wildlife mixed with contemporary European sounds. Ruia Aperahama (Tekau ma Rua – Rua Tekau ma Wha) was awarded the Best Māori Pop Artist and Songwriter, Tiki Taane won the Best Maori Male Solo Artist, Carol Storey Mokomoko won the Best Māori Traditional Album.’
It is the Mission of the Waiata Maori Awards to acknowledge and honour the keepers, teachers, promoters, creators and performers of Maori music; to continue to develop and promote the diversity of all Maori music; to showcase and celebrate the excellence of Maori music; to recognise the unique vision of Maori composers and musicians; and to enrich this rich cultural voice.
The Awards are open to all Maori composers. Entries close in June 2009 and all the details of how to enter can be found on the website www.waiatamaoriawards.co.nz
support local music 
get your entries in for next year!!!
Congrats to Young Sid – reppin’ South Auckland HARD! And I LOVE Taisha – I read she had a CD out when I was at home but didn’t have time to pick it up. I’ll have to go online and order it. Thanks for the update, JJ!