Elijah Zane: Bringing the Soul of Texas Blues to New Zealand

Austin-based singer, guitarist and songwriter Elijah Zane brings a distinctly Texan flavour to the blues — raw, soulful and shaped by a lifetime of music and hard-earned experience. Born and raised in Victoria, Texas, Zane grew up around his family's junkyard, where the sounds of working metal, Southern life and the blues became part of his musical DNA. He began playing guitar as a teenager and eventually found his home in Austin, immersing himself in the city's legendary blues scene.

His music draws on Texas Blues, rock, Latin influences and soul, with an energetic live style that puts as much emphasis on connection with the audience as it does on the guitar.

Zane has a long-standing connection with New Zealand, having previously performed at the Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival and returned in 2026 for the festival's 40th anniversary. His latest New Zealand visit also included Auckland performances, giving local audiences another chance to experience his take on the blues — straight from Austin, Texas.

We caught up with Elijah Zane to talk about the blues, Austin, his musical journey, and what keeps him picking up the guitar.