Big Fan hosted a diverse showcase of Auckland talent on Saturday night. Mazbou Q brought his Show Up, Show Out performance to a packed room of music fans. Opening the evening was TIDA, the Zimbabwean-born, Auckland-raised artist. TIDA’s music blends Afrobeat, Amapiano, drill and hip hop into an energetic and contemporary sound.
He draws inspiration from both his African heritage and life in Auckland. TIDA’s music often explores themes of identity, self-belief and community. TIDA shared that he lost a good friend to suicide the day before and called upon the audience to be there for one another in difficult times. His confident stage presence and infectious rhythms quickly engaged the audience. He surely set the tone for the night ahead.
Following was EYEJAY, a Nigerian-Samoan singer and songwriter. Her blend of soulful R&B, hip hop and Afro-fusion continues to establish her as one of Auckland’s emerging talents. EYEJAY combines smooth vocals with modern urban influences and strong cultural roots. She delivered a polished and engaging performance that highlighted both her versatility and growing confidence as a live performer. One to watch!
The evening culminated with a powerful headline set from Mazbou Q, one of New Zealand’s most distinctive voices in hip hop. Born in Liverpool to Nigerian parents and raised in South Auckland, Mazbou Q has built a reputation for combining thought-provoking lyricism with influences ranging from African rhythms and jazz to metal and classic hip hop. Mazbou is internationally known as The Rap Scientist for his work exploring the technical and rhythmic foundations of rap music. He brings both intelligence and creativity to everything he does.
Tonight he was backed by a live band, consisting of a drummer and 3 saxophonists. Mazbou Q delivered a dynamic performance that showcased the depth of his catalogue and the breadth of his musical influences. Blending complex flows, infectious grooves and commanding stage presence, he demonstrated why he remains one of New Zealand’s most innovative and forward-thinking hip hop artists.
Towards the end of his set his friend and former band mate Ch! Nonso joined Mazbou on stage for a couple of songs. Noone in the audience was static, all moving to rhythm. Infectious…
Together, the three acts showcased the diversity, talent and cultural richness that continue to shape Auckland’s contemporary music scene. Great night, great vibe, great community.
Photographs by Leonie Moreland
Mazbou Q
EYEJAY
TIDA
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