Aotearoa’s modern-soul master, Louis Baker shares a new video for ‘Overdrive’ today, his summer banger of a tune featuring double-platinum independent rapper/producer Kings.
The striking visuals, directed by photographer and filmmaker Abe Mora (Chaii, Troy Kingi, Stan Walker), take the viewer on an alluring night out in and around Auckland's historic Strand Station. Filmed under the after-hours glow of street lamps, the video features one woman, portrayed by Dianne Esther Maree Gavin, interpreting the single's seductive narrative through her own display of organic movement and dance. This clever new take on ‘Overdrive’ offers another perspective to Baker’s much-loved tune where the rush of new affection is found for oneself.
“The idea behind the video was to offer another perspective in the way we interpret love, with the growing trend of self-awareness and self-love, waiting on the traditional lover is taking a back seat to the idea of falling in love with oneself. Louis' track provided a well-balanced platform for a wāhine in the thick of her own journey toward emotional freedom to share her story,” explains Mora.
The irresistible soul-funk grooves of 'Overdrive’ is fast climbing the NZ radio charts with its wide-reaching appeal gathering up plays on commercial radio giants: Mai FM, ZM, More, and George FM, and alternative radio across the country alike. Upon release, the single secured the #1 spot on the Hot NZ Singles Chart and has clocked over 200k Spotify streams and support from California tastemaker radio station KCRW.
The track was produced by New Zealand producer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Devin Abrams (Dallas Tamaira, Drax Project, Pacific Heights). Baker has since performed ‘Overdrive’ to a live TV audience at the 58th Halberg Sporting Awards at Spark Arena on March 24th. The appearance follows Baker’s one-off headline show with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) at Auckland’s Town Hall in February to a standing ovation.
With over 25 million Spotify streams and a loyal global following, the successful touring artist has sold out previous shows in New Zealand and performed on the European festival circuit multiple times. Baker’s debut album Open was released in 2019 to critical acclaim, including a prestigious Taite Music Prize nomination, and Recorded Music NZ nominations for Best Soul Artist and Best Māori Artist. Previous singles ‘Back On My Feet’ (2014), ‘Rainbow’ (2016), and 'Black Crow’ (2018) have been recognised with APRA Silver Scroll nominations.
Stay tuned for more music from Louis Baker this year.