One Of ‘Us All’

Rip It Up, Issue 214, 1 June 1995, Page 11

One Of ‘Us All’

Karl Steven’s comments in last month’s RipltUp might well explain why national television and the media in general have turned their back on the New Zealand Music Awards. An awards ceremony where, and I quote, ‘the industry get together, get pissed, and give bands they like bits of yellow perspex,’ hardly warrants significant national coverage. The New Zealand fashion industry have got it together and recognise the need for an annual event which is a showcase, for their industry, with the Benson and Hedges Fashion Awards. Why do we allow petty in-fighting and. attitudes such as your’s rob the New Zealand music industry of a high profile showcase, where New Zealand musical achievement is recognised and rewarded with dignity and pride? How is the industry ever going to compete internationally with such a small-minded view as yours? When referring to the public vote for best single, you say: ‘I think the song we all know to be

the best should have won.’ Who are the ‘we all’ you are referring to? Your tobacco company sponsors, your pissed mates at the Music Awards, your neighbours? Next time, perhaps you will have the courtesy to consult ‘us all’ before you speak on our behalf. Get your head clear, Karl, or are you blinded by that smoky haze? New Zealand has a wealth of musical talent. Let’s celebrate and reward it with some pride. Remember, to use your words: ‘What I think changes.’ Yeah, let it change, but please try to expand your thinking beyond that of arrogant self-interest. Mary-anne Fletcher.