IA And Rei Collaborate On New Single 'He Piko He Tuna' Celebrating Love And Resilience For NZ Music Month

Taonga pūoro band IA teams up with award-winning artist Rei to launch their latest single, "He Piko He Tuna," an R&B-infused earworm fresh out now, marking the vibrant beginning of New Zealand Music Month.

"He Piko He Tuna" blends smooth RnB with minimalist beats and the soothing voices of the Punga Ihu (clay nose flute), evoking nostalgic echoes of late '90s RnB and hip-hop. The song weaves a narrative around the eel (tuna), symbolising resilience, endurance, and the complexities of love.

Inspired by the traditional Tainui whakataukī "he piko he taniwha," Rei reinterprets this into the central lyric "he piko he tuna," signifying love’s enduring presence at every twist and turn of life's journey. Rei notes, "If eels can journey to Tonga overcoming every obstacle, surely our own relationships can endure life's hardships."

IA and Rei formed their friendship at the International Indigenous Music Summit in Canada in 2023, fostering a friendship that led to this unique musical collaboration. Created remotely across Tāmaki Makaurau, Central Asia, and Ngaruawahia, the song is rooted in whakawhanaungatanga, true relationship building.

Reflecting on the collaboration, Rei shares, "It felt connected and personal, not just verses swapped remotely, but an authentic, collaborative effort from the heart."

IA’s Reti added, “It felt like writing with a cuzzy who has your back, knowing that we’ve got theirs too. It's an indescribable feeling of being inspired by someone and who you also inspire.”

Filmed in striking Taupō locations, the music video vividly captures the song's metaphorical essence. "We had great fun filming," laughs Rei, "despite sitting in freezing water from Tongariro River pretending to be relaxed, it was definitely memorable!"

Band member Moetū Smith adds, "After 25 years of marriage, this waiata resonates deeply. Love isn’t always easy, but patience and perseverance create something truly magical."

"He Piko He Tuna" offers listeners a tranquil space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with the calm waters of their relationships. As Reti puts it, "It's a great track for winding down, offering a moment of calm amidst life's currents."

"He Piko He Tuna" is available now on all streaming platforms!

Artist Bios:
IA – Waikato-based duo Reti Hedley and Moetū Smith create music that seamlessly blends contemporary genres with traditional Māori instruments, exploring themes of identity, connection, and cultural heritage.

Rei – Award-winning Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist known for effortlessly fusing Māori language and tikanga with modern RnB, hip-hop, and electronic influences, celebrated for innovative and soulful storytelling.

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