Debut single after rockquest success

Salem Randall’s first single is being released tomorrow. “A Chord Like This” is a reflection of his musical journey and ambition to inspire and uplift his audience. Picture supplied

Salem Māhia Randall has been busy since winning the solo-duo section of the 2023 Smokefreerockquest national final  in September.

His debut single, “A Chord Like This” is released tomorrow.  The 15-year-old year 11 student from Gisborne Boys’ High School is ready to make waves with this new release.

“A Chord Like This” is not just a song, he says. It’s a reflection of Salem’s musical journey and his ambition to inspire and uplift his audience.

“I try to inspire people with my music, make them feel good about themselves. Whenever I am on stage I have this certain feeling that I am in the place I am supposed to be. I try to give people a better feeling in their hearts when they listen to my music,” Salem says.

Jeff Newton from NZ On Air, who was a judge at the 2023 Smokefreerockquest, praised Salem’s performance, highlighting his ability to captivate the audience with his songwriting, voice, and instrumental ability.

“All he had was his instrument, his voice, and his passion, and he nailed it. He was so good.  You can strip it back, or add on to it — his songwriting is great. His ability to command the audience with just his voice and a solo instrument and making people believe and feel something — he was very developed,” Newton  said.

This release was made possible through the NZ On Air New Music Single recording, video, and promo grant, part of Salem’s prize for winning the Smokefreerockquest, which also included $3000 in musical equipment from Rockshop.

“A Chord Like This” was recorded at Big Fan studios in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, where Salem worked with producer and mentor Chris Mac, (from Six60) and engineer Noema Te Hau III.

The track features Jiwon Kwon on violin, performing a composition written by James Cullen (both of Auckland Philharmonia).

The official music video, directed by Dave Thomson at Imaginary Friends, was shot at the Just Plane Interesting antique shop in west Auckland. The video shows Salem as a bored shop attendant, dancing around the shop as he is moved by the music he listens to.

■  Entries for this year’s Smokefreerockquest are now open. Visit smokefreerockquest.co.nz for more details.