After ringing in the new year with a packed-out House Party show, Ladi6 is taking that spark on the road – and our region is lucky enough to be on the route. The award-winning artist arrives at Neudorf Vineyards on February 21 as part of her summer tour, a run of shows that revisits the sound and spirit of Le Vā, her latest album, while celebrating the tracks that have made her one of Aotearoa’s most revolutionary musicians.
For more than 20 years Ladi6 has been reshaping the edges of hip hop, soul and electronic music, building a catalogue embedded in Pacific identity, warm grooves and the kind of storytelling that stays with you long after the beat fades. RNZ has described her as “an actual queen… an essential gig for the Kiwi summer,” and this tour delivers exactly that: renewed momentum, new material, and the fan-favourite beats that she is renowned for. Ladi6 joins Nelson Magazine for a round of quick-fire questions to get to know the woman behind the voice – and the summer tour everyone’s talking about.
Heading to beautiful Neudorf Vineyards on February 21 – if you could describe the vibe of your summer tour in three words, what would they be? Joy and good energy!
Revisiting Nelson, will you be able to enjoy any time here outside the show? I hope so, it's my favourite place on earth and I am hoping to get the crew in for a river swim.
Do you have any pre-show rituals or good-luck habits before stepping on stage? Yes, we will get together for a pre-stage prayer and a pre-stage shot!
You’ve had such an incredible career – what’s one standout moment that still gives you goosebumps? For me, I always pinch myself thinking about my support slots for Erykah Badu in Berlin and Gil Scott-Heron around the UK and Europe. I still can't believe I did that!
When you’re not performing, what are your must-have items on the road to keep the creative energy high? My notebook and my neck pillow to dream those big dreams, then write them down!
What’s something your fans might be surprised to learn about you? That I have studied for the past four years to become a qualified counsellor.
What songs or artists are currently on your own summer playlist? Mokomokai and Nganeko – local emerging legends.
Do you have a mantra or motto that keeps you grounded during the busy touring season? Giving myself and those around me permission to relax and go slow, no matter how busy we are. It is summer holidays after all.
And finally – what message or feeling do you hope people take away after seeing your live show this summer? A feeling of both joy and empowerment, always!
Tickets to the event are available through: www.banishedmusic.com/tours/ladi6-summer-tour
