17 March 2023 - 0 Comments

Award-winning Aotearoa artist and producer Seth Haapu has today released his meditative waiata aroha Rongoā, as well as the stunningly emotive accompanying video made by his 17-year-old-prodigy son, Noah Haapu.

Listen to Rongoā HERE

Built around a midtempo, Pacific soul rhythm, with a soaring Polynesian falsetto stacked with layered harmonies, Rongoā is a message of hope, healing, and connection. Written by Seth and co-produced with Kody Nielson, the song was crafted at Seth’s home studio (Kēhua); a place built alongside whānau and nestled among nature in the Waitākere region.

“It came about during a season of extraordinary challenges when I was writing in my studio one night,” explains Seth. “It started with a whisper, but as I listened in the silence, the music took on a life of its own as if linking me to a higher power. It spoke to my fears and hopes, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

“As the song was written, I felt a sense of peace and wholeness that had eluded me for a time. It became a taonga, a symbol of hope and strength, and one that I hope others can turn to in times of need. Whenever I sing it, it reminds me that I am loved and that I can get through anything.”

Wanting to preserve the integrity of the Polynesian sound, Seth called on the talents of Polynesian musicians to perform on the track. Producer and mixing engineer Kody Nielson is Hawaiian, guitarist Moiho Leaupepe is Tahitian, bass player Isaac Etimani is Samoan, and keys player Jireh Falaniko is Samoan and Tongan. As a result, the music for Rongoā captures “the values and beauty of my Polynesian heritage that is inherent to my artistry. The sound is calming and soothing, like the tranquil waters of my ancestral home of Huahine, Tahiti.”

Also out today is the accompanying video, visually depicting the personal and expressive nature of the song through handwritten lyrics. Inspired by Seth’s Dad, who wrote him a series of letters before he passed, the video is Seth “writing a letter to the people I love, and to my children and grandchildren.” The personal connection to the visuals is also encapsulated through Seth’s prodigy son Noah Haapu being the one to make it, who at 17 has already worked on videos for international artists such as American rappers Future and Gunna.

“Working with my son on such a special kaupapa was an honour. Realising that our bloodline carries the mana and craft of our ancestors.”

Watch the video HERE

Today’s release is just the beginning of a new chapter of music from this stunning artist, and the first taste of what’s to come.

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