Kihikihi singers/songwriters Blair and Rosie Shaw are planning to perform on the American stage.
The couple, who also featured in this year’s Cambridge Autumn Festival, has been invited to attend the USA Radio Awards in Pennsylvania in October, both as performers and as nominees – for People’s Choice Vocalists of the Year 2024, and Songwriters of the Year 2024. The event will be televised over six US states.
It’s great validation for the duo who formed in 2020 during the Covid lockdown. In a Te Awamutu News story around that time, they said they hoped to launch a new career path in music, and by all accounts that is well underway. They do regular gigs and are fast gaining global radio play, reaching over 181 countries via livestreaming.
Rosie and Blair Shaw – aka Rowdy’s Rose – relaxing at home with their boys, Jasper and Jesse. File Photo.
The pair were also selected by NZ on Air as New Tracks artists for June 2024 with their new single ‘Shooting Star’, which has hit the high notes on music charts in both New Zealand and the US.
The Shaws said they are “absolutely over the moon” with developments. “While it’s totally unexpected, we believe it’s important to take opportunities like this, so we’re doing everything we can to make this happen and represent Kiwis on the US stage.”
They are accustomed to helping fundraise for groups such as Gumboot Friday and Pink Ribbon events, but right now are busy fundraising in support of their trip.
Part of that schedule, which includes widespread gigging, are two benefit concerts in Te Awamutu this month and the other featuring Jason Kerrison from Opshop in September.
Rowdy’s Rose – aka Blair and Rosie Shaw – performing at the Cambridge Autumn Festival earlier this year. Photo by Viv Posselt
