01 June 2018 - 0 Comments

Thirty years after the release of Shona Laing's ubiquitous hit, Dunedin-based artist Dudley Benson shares his interpretation of (Glad I’m) Not a Kennedy, accompanied by a music video premiering now at The Spinoff.

(Glad I'm) Not a Kennedy is Dudley's first release since 2015's Muscles, named Song of the Year by Wellington's RadioActive FM. A standalone single, Kennedywas recorded with the Dunedin Symphony Orchestra as part of the recording sessions for his forthcoming third album, Zealandia.

Dudley’s self-directed music video for Kennedy was shot in collaboration with iconic fashion label Nom*d, and filmed at Dunedin's historic Olveston House.

The single is available today via all major digital platforms.

A critical observation of the American political dynasty, Shona Laing’s (Glad I’m) Not a Kennedy was internationally released as a single in 1987 and 1988. Kennedy charted at #2 in New Zealand, #14 on the Billboard US rock chart, and solidified Laing as a household name.

Bio: Dudley Benson is a Dunedin-based independent artist. Growing up as head soloist in the Christchurch Cathedral Choir, his work is known for its innovative approach to exploring nationalism and his relationship with the land. Since 2006 Dudley has released two albums, several EPs, and has collaborated with artists including Vashti Bunyan, Matmos, and Stef Animal. Benson was nominated for the 2011 Taite Music Prize, and won a 2014 New Generation Award from the Arts Foundation of New Zealand. His third album, Zealandia, will be released in 2018.

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