Ladi6, more formally known as Karoline Tamati, expresses that discovering love amidst life’s challenging transitions has been a powerful source of resilience for her.
Photo:
After taking a significant break from her musical journey, Ladi6 is poised to make a triumphant return with the release of her exhilarating new single, alongside an extensive nationwide tour set to kick off this November.
The beloved Samoan-Kiwi soul queen, in a candid conversation with Music 101‘s Charlotte Ryan, shares her gratitude for balancing two of her greatest passions: music and academia.
“Music is obviously my bread and butter, and has been for the last two decades,” she says. “It’s the only form through which I can truly express my creativity and find catharsis.
“Touring becomes a heartfelt reason for us to unite as friends; it’s about spreading joy to our audiences, which we definitely feel among ourselves while putting on these vibrant shows.”
Ladi6 enthralls the audience on the Treaty Grounds main stage during the much-anticipated Waitangi Day 2024.
Photo: RNZ / Peter de Graaf
Entering the music scene at a tender age, Ladi6 admits that pursuing higher education wasn’t on her radar until recently. “I used to think maybe I was too old or had aged out, leading to doubts about my focus on studies.”
However, as she approaches the final year of her psychology degree, Ladi6 feels optimistic about how her studies are progressing.
Her new single “Alofa” embodies her quintessentially candid nature, reflecting deep themes of self-empowerment and self-love following a breakup. “This song deals with the myriad emotions surrounding pain and stress, and it ultimately celebrates the transformative journey of acceptance that leads to embracing positive change,” she explains.
“Essentially, ‘Alofa’ is about finding love amidst the pain of a breakup and recognizing the growth that follows, culminating in a profound love for oneself and the resilience to navigate through it.”
On Friday, 8 November, Ladi6 ignited her ‘Alofa’ tour with an intimate performance in her beloved hometown of Christchurch.
The cozy, atmospheric inner-city venue, The Church, adorned with exquisite leadlight windows, provided a stunning backdrop for what she described as a deeply personal event.
“I was surrounded by primary school friends, high school pals, and loyal fans from my early days with [her former band] Sheelahroc. It was just an epic, beautiful love-filled experience—everything I could have possibly imagined.”
Looking ahead, Ladi6 hinted that her forthcoming album remains untitled but might be unveiled in the winter of 2025.
“I dream of launching a grand winter tour, covering various regions across New Zealand, so I’m aiming for around June or July next year… right now, we’re just kind of flying by the seat of our pants.”
Alofa: The Heartbeat Tour Aotearoa
Saturday 9 November – The Sawmill Cafe, Leigh
Thursday 14 November – Meow, Wellington
Friday 15 November – Catacombs, Dunedin
Friday 29 November – Totara St, Mount Maunganui
Saturday 30 November – The Others Way Festival, Auckland
**Interview with Ladi6: The Resilient Samoan-Kiwi Soul Queen Returns to Music**
**Charlotte Ryan:** It’s an absolute pleasure to welcome Ladi6, the incredibly talented Karoline Tamati, back to the music scene. After taking a break, you’re gearing up for a new single and a nationwide tour. How does it feel to return to music after this hiatus?
**Ladi6:** Thank you, Charlotte! It feels incredible to be back. Taking a break allowed me to reflect and grow in many ways, and I’m grateful that I’ve discovered love during this time, which has truly sparked my resilience. Music is something that has always been close to my heart, and it’s the medium through which I express my creativity and emotions.
**Charlotte:** You mentioned love playing a significant role in your resilience. Can you elaborate on how love has influenced your music and your journey during this challenging time?
**Ladi6:** Absolutely. Love has been a profound source of strength and inspiration for me, especially amid life’s transitions. It provides a grounding force that allows me to connect with my audience on a deeper level. My new single, “Alofa,” is a celebration of this love, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.
**Charlotte:** It sounds beautiful! You’ve been balancing music and your academic pursuits—you’re approaching the final year of your psychology degree. How has that been for you?
**Ladi6:** Balancing both has been challenging but enriching. For a long time, I thought perhaps I was too old to go back to school and had doubts about my ability to focus on studies while pursuing music. But now, as I get closer to finishing, I feel a sense of achievement. I’m excited about how my studies are complementing my music; they both stem from a desire to understand and express the human experience.
**Charlotte:** That’s incredibly inspiring! As you prepare to hit the road for your tour, what can fans expect from your live shows?
**Ladi6:** Our shows are all about joy and connection. Touring gives us the chance to unite as friends and invite our audiences into our vibrant experiences. Each performance is infused with so much energy and love, and I’m excited to share that with my fans. It feels like a celebration where we spread joy and creativity together.
**Charlotte:** We can’t wait to experience that! Lastly, is there a message you’d like to share with those who have followed your journey?
**Ladi6:** To everyone who has supported me, thank you for being patient and encouraging. I hope my music continues to resonate with you and reminds you of the power of love and resilience in our lives. Let’s embrace the journey together!
**Charlotte:** Thank you so much, Ladi6. We look forward to your new music and the upcoming tour!
**Ladi6:** Thank you, Charlotte! I’m excited to see everyone out there!