ARTIST: Cindy Ruakere
The youngest of six, born in Inglewood, Taranaki, New Zealand - of both Maori and Pakeha descent, Cindy Ruakere has been a true forerunner for the Christian itinerant ministry in New Zealand. She embodies the pioneering spirit of New Zealand and through her worship and songs encourages us to "Press On" into the things God has for us.
Ruakere's first album was released in 1999 - Tara (Courage). She describes it as a fusion of traditional Maori and modern music, this was an album based on the theme of reconciliation. She followed this up with The Treaty in 2000, released her third album Tara 2 in 2001 and then in 2003 Haruru (Roar).
Ruakere cites a diverse range of musical influences/styles from artists such as Ben Harper and Kevin Prosch to Crowded House, Delirious, Van Morrison, Sting, Morning Star, Nina Simone and Blind Boys of Alabama.
She has featured on New Zealand's TVNZ shows Mai Time, appearing on Mai Time in April 2000, and breakfast TV. Two singles from The Treaty were released on all Maori radio stations in 2000-2001. Ruakere has also been on various international media including TV, radio and magazine interviews...
