Mareikura Nathan, known as Marei, is a rising Māori singer-songwriter whose artistry is deeply rooted in her rich musical whakapapa. With a voice that captivates through its textured tone and emotional depth, Marei weaves her life journey into every song she writes and performs. She credits esteemed mentors such as Seth Haapu, Bella Kalolo-Suraj, and Maisey Rika for their invaluable guidance, which has helped shape her sound and artistic vision.
In 2023, Marei significantly expanded her musical kete, composing new waiata and forging meaningful collaborations with leading wahine Māori artists including Majic Paora, Rebel Reid, and Jordyn through the Kōkōtea Songwriting wānanga. She also took part in the Indigenous Song Hubs program, co-creating and releasing waiata reo taketake alongside prominent Australian Indigenous artists Chris Tamwoy, Fred Leone, Emily Wurramara, and Māori artists Tawaroa Kawana and Troy Kingi.
Marei’s discography features her debut single “Rock Steady,” the waiata anthem “Tauānuku,” produced by Seth Haapu, and a featured track “Hine ki te Ao Mārama” on Haapu’s album Whaiora. She has collaborated with artists such as Mā, Chase Woods, and her whānau, including her grandmother Whirimako Black and Kings. Her releases also include Te Ōhāki – Kei hea taku reo, Hine Mokemoke, Tahi ka Riri, Nanakia, and the recent collaborative waiata Tuia Rā with Tawaz and Australian artists.
Drawing strength and inspiration from her musical whānau, Marei continues to honor and celebrate her culture through song. She is now setting her sights on recordin and release her debut EP, promising an exciting future that blends cultural heritage with contemporary sound, marking her as a compelling voice in the modern Māori music scene.
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