Music News - Ra Charmian share their wonderful world - 'Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe'
01 December 2023 - 0 Comments
Tāmaki Makaurau-based band Ra Charmian have today released their new single + video Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe - a stunning te reo Māori interpretation of What a Wonderful World.
Conjuring up summer, whānau and bringing people together, Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe is based on the Māori mythology of Ranginui and Papatuanuku. Lead singer Ra Charmian Toia-Booth (Ngāpuhi, Tainui) explains that it’s also a dedication to how beautiful the world is and taking time to appreciate it. “Aotearoa is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and we can get so caught up in ourselves that we forget to appreciate it sometimes,” says Ra.
“I first sang this at a Matariki event, and it went down so well we thought we had to record and release it. Our friend Dixon Nacey came over for a jam and, between the three of us, we wrote the arrangement you hear today.” Recorded at Lopdell House in Titirangi, Tāmaki Makaurau, Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe was mixed/produced at the bands home studio and is sure to quickly become an Aotearoa treasure this summer and beyond.
Something else that inspired the waiata, was the passing this year of both Ra and fellow band member/husband Hayden Booth’s fathers. They say that performing Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe helped them move through their grief and feel grateful for the time they had with their Dads - and appreciate the time they have with those still alive.
Also being released today is a special music video. It features footage taken at Tauwhara Marae, as well as beautiful footage of Aotearoa and a glimpse into the band's life travelling and performing. “It was made by Hayden and a big part of the video is capturing the essence of the Marae - whānau, love & connection. It was taken behind the scenes during my Dad’s Tangi, which was a big event. Tauwhara is a magical place, with children running around freely, singalongs, stories and amazing kai (my cousins are awesome cooks!)”
Ra Charmian Toia-Booth is a performer and vocalist who performed around the world for almost 10 years before returning to Aotearoa. Since being back she’s been a featured artist on RNZ, Air NZ and radio stations around the country, as well as performing on TV and radio - including being the voice for the 2023 NZ Radio Award-winning jingle You’ve Sure Got A Friend In The Breeze. Hayden Booth is also an experienced musician who has toured and performed internationally for many years - playing in bands opening for the likes of John Mayer, Jools Holland and Paul Weller. Hayden has won 2 international awards for his media production work. He’s also known as one of the best guitarists around and has played on many TV and radio ads over the years.
Ra and Hayden are excited to be releasing their music and, with an album in the works, Papatuānuku He Ataahua Koe is a wonderful way to be introduced to Ra Charmian. Listen and follow now!
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