Laura-mae is an indie-pop singer-songwriter from Golden Bay. Betsy is her first release. Although she’s been around awhile, having competed in Smokefree Rockquest and season two of NZ X-Factor, after taking a break from music to focus on her study, Laura-Mae kicked things off again with a nationwide tour in early 2020, before the release of this sweet and upbeat debut single.
The song begins with a fast-paced guitar strum, the drums then come in shortly before Laura-mae’s striking vocals soar into the first verse. The song emerged from flat-mate mayhem, she quips “don’t worry about the alarm” and sings about the tension of sharing a room. The chorus is catchy, the harmonies velvety and melody infectious. The last verse begins at a slower pace, adding some variety and space to the track. Overall, Betsy has a fun, summery vibe, reminiscent of early Jamie McDell.
A notable first release, more polished production could elevate future singles. Betsy is easy listening and a nice change to the common heartbreak narrative. Keep an eye out for more from Laura-mae of Golden Bay, she's promised a few more singles this year.
Hailing from the beach haven of Golden Bay, singer/songwriter Laura-Mae stays true to her relaxed and upbeat vibe. This NZ musician began guitar and singing lessons at age 12, as well as strengthening her performance style through acting classes and nation-wide Country Music awards. She was a finalist in Smokefree Rockquest competing against Anna Robinson and Livvy Nott. Fresh out of high school, Laura-mae took a 5-year break from her musical career to study Marketing and Management at Victoria University of Wellington. When given the opportunity to be lead vocalist for a local covers band, Laura-Mae jumped right back into her singing and took advantage of NZ’s most creative city.
This indie-pop songwriter has performed original songs on National TV (Maori TV), sung at Wellington’s annual festival Gardens Magic plus, competed up to bootcamp round in xFactor NZ in the top 23 NZ female singer category alongside Mae Valley and Paige. Her most recent 2019/2020 Summer tour from the top-of-the-south and across the North Island, helped strengthen fan loyalty and reach the 1k follower mark on Facebook.
Laura-Mae draws lyrical inspiration from John Lennon and Stevie Nicks whilst structuring the rhythmic guitar pattern to that of Ziggy Alberts or Mumford and Sons. This rising singer has proven herself 2020’s upcoming NZ musician to watch, with new single releases scheduled throughout the year.