RNZ Music 101 Highlights May 24: Ladi6 Tour, Tami Neilson Album & Award, Durand Jones & The Indications, Mim Jensen EP

RNZ’s flagship music program, Music 101, on its edition of Saturday, May 24, 2025, offered listeners a deep dive into significant developments within the contemporary music scene, spanning genres from R&B and soul to country and indie-pop. The broadcast featured insightful interviews and spotlights on new releases and upcoming tours, capturing the pulse of both local and international artists.

Ladi6 Discusses ‘Le Vā’ and Grief Journey Ahead of Extensive Tour

Central to the May 24th broadcast was an in-depth segment with acclaimed New Zealand artist Ladi6. She spoke candidly about her forthcoming album, titled “Le Vā,” offering insights into its thematic underpinnings and creative process. A particularly poignant aspect of the interview involved Ladi6 sharing her personal journey navigating grief following the loss of her mother, a profound experience that she indicated has influenced her latest work.

The discussion also served as a preview for Ladi6’s extensive album release tour across New Zealand. A comprehensive list of confirmed dates was highlighted, providing fans with opportunities to experience her new material live. The tour itinerary includes a performance on June 19 at Dropkicks in Dunedin, followed by a show on June 20 at Loons in Lyttelton. The tour continues on June 21 at Devilles in Nelson. Later in the month, she is scheduled to play on June 28 at San Fran in Wellington. July dates commence on the 4th at The Yard in Raglan, then move to Hollywood Avondale in Auckland on July 5. The tour proceeds to Artworks Theatre on Waiheke Island on July 11, the Butter Factory in Whangarei on July 12, Sherwood in Queenstown on July 18, and concludes on July 19 at Rhyme x Reason in Wānaka. These dates underscore Ladi6’s commitment to connecting with audiences nationwide as she launches “Le Vā.”

Tami Neilson Prepares for ‘Neon Cowgirl,’ Major Tours, and Receives Inaugural Country Honour

New Zealand country music luminary Tami Neilson was another key focus of the May 24th Music 101 program. Neilson provided details regarding her highly anticipated forthcoming album, which she has titled “Neon Cowgirl.” The interview explored the inspirations and sounds defining this new collection of work from the acclaimed artist known for her powerful vocals and distinctive blend of country, soul, and rockabilly influences.

The conversation also touched upon Neilson’s significant upcoming tour schedule. Notably, she is slated to join iconic figures Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson for select dates, a testament to her growing international stature within the country music genre. Beyond these high-profile support slots, Neilson’s own touring plans were discussed, highlighting her busy performance calendar.

Adding to her recent achievements, Neilson’s interview followed a notable recognition at The Country Music Honours event held in Gore. During this ceremony, she was announced as the inaugural recipient of the Country Music Honour for Contribution to Country Music in Aotearoa. This prestigious award acknowledges her substantial impact and dedication to the development and visibility of country music within New Zealand. The broadcast noted Neilson’s recent Aotearoa Music Award (AMA) nominations as further evidence of her continued success and critical acclaim.

Durand Jones & The Indications Members Discuss New Album ‘Flowers’

From the international scene, the program featured members of the American R&B and soul ensemble Durand Jones & The Indications. Drummer and soprano Aaron Frazer, alongside guitarist Blake Rhein, joined Music 101 to discuss the group’s newly announced album, which carries the title “Flowers.” The musicians shared insights into the creative process behind their latest project and offered details about a new single released from the album, providing listeners with a taste of the group’s evolving sound and direction. Durand Jones & The Indications have garnered significant attention for their modern take on classic soul and R&B, and the interview served to build anticipation for “Flowers.”

Spotlight on Christchurch Singer-Songwriter Mim Jensen

Music 101 also dedicated a segment to highlighting emerging talent from within New Zealand. Christchurch-based singer-songwriter Mim Jensen was featured, with attention drawn to her recently delivered indie-pop EP. The EP, titled “Shadow of the Gift,” was described, showcasing Jensen’s distinct voice and songwriting capabilities within the indie-pop landscape. The segment aimed to introduce listeners to Jensen’s work and the creative output emerging from the Christchurch music scene.

‘The Mixtape’ Segment Features Deva Mahal and Kara Rickard

Rounding out the May 24th edition of Music 101 was the program’s popular “The Mixtape” segment. This recurring feature invites guests to share a selection of songs that hold personal significance. The guests for this particular episode were artists Deva Mahal and Kara Rickard. Their participation offered a diverse range of musical influences and personal stories, providing listeners with a curated journey through their respective musical worlds and tastes, further enriching the program’s eclectic content.

The May 24, 2025 broadcast of RNZ’s Music 101 thus presented a comprehensive overview of recent musical news and developments, featuring established artists like Ladi6 and Tami Neilson alongside international acts and local emerging talent, all while incorporating regular segments like “The Mixtape.”