WOMEN OF THE ISLANDS - MOZIE
MOZIE
SINGER / SONGWRITER
SAMOAN
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Te Whanganui-a-Tara-based Samoan singer / songwriter MOZIE, recently dropped new RnB-pop single ‘Sonshine’.
With an addictive upbeat groove, catchy hopeful lyrics and stunning vocals, ‘Sonshine’ is a song that effortlessly fills any space with warmth. We talked to MOZIE about her journey in music and her latest work!
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Tell us a bit about yourself
O lo’u igoa o Moana Leota, I come from the villages of Vaimoso, Avao and Tanugamanono. I grew up in the beautiful Wairarapa and currently reside in Te Whanganui-a-tara. I am an artist and a Mum!
Have you always wanted to become an artist? What was your journey into music like?
Yes! I’ve always loved music/art and been surrounded by it since i was a dot! My Mum is a singer and a painter, and many of my aiga sing too. My journey into music started with the classic primary school productions. I used to get real bad stage fright but the more I did, the more I enjoyed myself.
Whilst at Primary I got the amazing opportunity to voice the revitilised version of the Inter Islander Ad, which was actually used up until 2020. From this I was inspired to keep my musical journey going and many doors have opened along the way of this ever growing up path.
What were your biggest inspirations both inside and outside of music?
My aiga for sure! Other artists such as: Lauryn Hill, Dido, InFlo, Cleo Sol, YEBBA. I am always inspired by emotions and try to surrender to my intuition when creating art too.
Tell us about your latest single, 'Sonshine'
It’s about knowing that when you lose something or someone, the sun will rise again. You can try again, you can love again. For me, when we were writing it, the song’s meaning took a slight detour - I was in the early stages of pregnancy.
Each time Leo (Coghini, co-writer) and I would come back to it, I would be slightly further along and, as I was singing/writing the lyrics, I found that the ‘sun rising again’ for me was my soon-to-be son - my ‘Sonshine’!”
How has your upbringing & culture shaped you into the woman you are today?
Both upbringing and culture have had an immense impact on who I am. When I hear the word “upbringing” I think of my time running barefoot over paddocks with friends, biking to school, doing cross country in beautiful native bush and 5cent lolly mixes from the dairy down the road.
My mellow upbringing in the Wairarapa really taught me about the joy in nature and the importance of time and space. All things that ground me in life today.
In terms of my culture, I am so proud to be Samoan. I have immense gratitude for my ancestors and the sacrifices they had to make for me and my aiga to live a fruitful life. Their sacrifices and alofa are what inspire me to keep going, to do my best and to keep my heart and mind focused on what is important and real.
How has your culture influenced your creative work?
My culture and heritage is like the backbone of my art, it is what helps me to stand proud in who I am and what I make.
What is one piece of advice you've been given that has stayed with you?
Try not to be afraid of being afraid. Sometimes the one thing you need for growth is the one thing you are most afraid to do.
Be brave. Step Out.
What advice do you have for other young Pacific youth who want to pursue music?
Reach out to those you love around you, if you ever need help or inspiration. You may find that having a conversation could inspire a lyric but it also important to stay contented.
Being an artist can sometimes be a bit of a lonely road especially if you are an independent solo artists, so I think it is sensible to make sure you have good support around you can lean on.
Even if it’s just one person! I’d also say to follow your heart (cheesy I know but SO true), keep yourself grounded and “be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” - Dr Seuss
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Check out the new single, 'Sonshine,' here!