Tohu releases their second single, “Tū Mai Te Reo” on 19 May. 2023 It speaks of holding our language close to us, connecting us to our culture.
Tama ( lead singer) felt like he was losing the language because he had no one to speak to whilst living abroad.
The words were an inspiration to hold on to his Reo (language) as it was a connection to his ancestors, especially living overseas. He wanted to write a waiata that was easy on the ears and had a strong message.
With the support and funding by Te Māngai Pāho, Tū mai te reo was recorded and mixed by Evan Pope at Studio 11B and mastered by Chris Chetland at KOG Studio. Videography was done by Shelz Media.
This reggae tune gives off the summer vibes that we have missed this year with the weather, with a reminder to hold fast to our language and culture.
TOHU is a five-piece band made up of diverse members from Aotearoa, formed in December 2022. Tohu brings together over six decades of musical expertise that perpetuates bilingual culture through the power of music. From Rotorua, to the nation and beyond the borders, we value a commitment to Whanaungatanga (community), Manaakitanga (care for each other), Aroha (love), Auahatanga (creativity), and Kōrero (communication).
Our essence as Tohu is to co-exist in a bilingual society that supports the values we aspire to. Music is our chosen medium through which we are able to connect with people across different languages, cultures and backgrounds. Through our shared experience, we are able to relate to each other, gain perspective, and create compassion and an understanding attained through art. Sharing our Reo (language) is one way to Kōrero our inner workings. As we grow as a band, we would like to invite you on this journey into biculturalism that Aotearoa thrives on, weaving our unique story that is our Whakapapa (genealogy).