Bio
Carawei is a multi-instrumentalist, music producer, and audio engineer hailing from Tāmaki Makaurau. Known for her versatility and innovative sound, she has collaborated with the renowned Dust Palace aerial circus company and a range of emerging Kiwi artists, including Ray Leslie, Phodiso, Kieran ZC, and the Cootie Cuties.
Carawei was a driving force in the powerful femme-fronted rock band Venom Dolls until the group disbanded in 2022, leaving an indelible mark on the local rock scene.
Graduating as valedictorian from SAE, Carawei has since flourished as both a producer and session drummer. In addition to her work in the studio, she inspires the next generation of musicians as an after-school tutor, teaching Drums, Guitar, and Bass.
Now signed to BigPop, Carawei is poised to launch her highly anticipated solo work. Her upcoming release, “The Moon and the Tides,” which earned the prestigious Outstanding Performance accolade at Auckland Fringe 2022, is slated for release in November 2024.
What or who inspired you to start playing and making music?
My parents! My dad has always been a singer and my mum took me to learn all the instruments.
What did you enjoy most about your time at SAE?
I enjoyed being put out of your comfort zone and learning new genres and software/hardware. Lecturers were great too.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Alternative RnB/Hip Hop, sometimes Alt-Pop and sometimes weirder stuff.
What have the highlights of your career been so far?
Working with the Dust Palace on their huge circus shows! It’s also been great working with BigPop, they’ve been a great help.
Who would be your dream collaboration?
Lianne la Havas
What are your future career goals?
I will release the two albums I’ve been sitting on first and then I’ll cross that bridge 🙂
What advice would you give someone looking to get into a career in music?
Work and jam with as many people as possible! Find some great mentors and always be picking brains. Networking is daunting but you’ll quickly realise how easy it is for musicians to get along with each other.
@_carawei_
