Newcomer pop songwriter Tazman Jack is featured on NZ On Air Music‘s NewTracks compilation for the first time this March. He moved south from Dargaville a few years ago to study in Auckland and pursue a career in music. With a knack for relatable lyrics and a summery vibe to his sound, he was off to a good start when his previous, debut single late last year featured Smashproof‘s Tyree Tautogia and was instantly picked up by Mai FM. We caught up with him between jobs.

What other projects would we know you from if this isn’t your first musical endeavour?

I released my first single Think About You featuring Ty, late last year, thanks to the Mai FM Big Break competition, Apart from that, I haven’t been in any other music projects as of yet, though I’m hoping for lots!

Who is your project made up of, if it’s not just you?

Myself and Tom Lee

What’s the background to it?

I come from a small place up north called Dargaville. I studied performance music at high school – I was also my high school’s head boy! 🙂

I’ve been influenced by many artists, but mostly, I analysed and listened to a lot of John Mayer and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

I moved to Auckland in 2012 to gain my Bachelor in Music at the University of Auckland. I am now currently working two other jobs, working for an edge protection company and as a personal trainer, all whilst pursuing a career in the music industry as a singer-/ongwriter, producer and performer.

Does the name Tazman Jack have a special meaning to you? 

It does! I Love my family to bits, and I have had so much support from them doing music, but most of all from my parents, and a very special aunty and uncle – my Aunty Jacci who I am named after – my full name being Tazman-Jack Nesbit, and my Uncle George, alongside my parents, helped fund me through university and have always supported me with my music.

So I carry the name ‘Jack’ after my aunty and of course ‘Tazman’ which my parents named me.

What makes Together stand out for you as a single?

I feel it’s quite catchy and current, people can relate to the lyrics in different ways and take what they feel from it. Plus it has a good summer vibes feel.

What is the story behind Together?

When I started writing the song, it immediately gave off summer vibes, and it reminded me of my first trip out of New Zealand and Australia, to Bali with my girlfriend. We were both a little excited and scared to be travelling to a place like Bali. So for me it’s about going on a journey and conquering the unknown with the comfort of your best friend.

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, in the single?

I really like the filter on the intro of the song, And the vocal phrasing of the first verse, mixed with the rhythm of drums and guitar. Second to that the DROP!

Who did you write/record/produce the single with?

I produced and arranged most of this song and played 99% of the instruments in the track and made all of it out of the comfort of my own bedroom. Tom Lee from Woodcut Studios and Lee Mvtthews worked his magic on the drop of the song and mixed and mastered it.

Describe in one sentence what you want listeners to take away from this song.

If you’re struggling, or are nervous or anxious about something you don’t need to do it alone.

In general, how do you work out what song would make a good single?

I spend a lot of time on vocal phrasing and melodies. And the catchiness and relatability.

Can you think of three other local tunes that should be on a playlist alongside your song.

Tommy Nee – Million Miles Away
Ty – One Hundred
Thomas Oliver – Tenderly

How can we find you on social media?

Facebook 
Instagram
Youtube 
Snapchat: Tazman Jack

Any last words?

Thank you very much for the feature! I’m very glad you enjoy the song! There’s plenty more to come…