New Zealand producer 9lives believes that music should be as vivid and joy-affirming as a splash of color in a monochromatic world. Based halfway across the globe, the producer has found his current tour with Lucy Bedroque and Kuru to be a transformative experience, offering a rare opportunity to bridge the gap between digital collaboration and real-world connection.
Hailing from Hawke’s Bay, 9lives has cultivated a thoughtful, observant persona that translates into his production style. During our conversation at Rolling Loud 2026, he reflected on his origins, noting that his first foray into music production was a humble GarageBand project for a high school class. While he jokingly describes those early lo-fi efforts as “horrible,” they served as the catalyst for his professional trajectory.
The Crossover of Sound and Style
9lives operates at the intersection of hip-hop and electronic music, a space currently being redefined by the rise of the digicore movement. He points to the influence of artists like Snow Strippers, who have successfully integrated rap sensibilities into raw, punk-inspired electronic soundscapes. For 9lives, this fusion feels like a natural evolution of the genre.
Beyond the studio, 9lives is equally intentional about his aesthetic. When asked about his style, he emphasizes the importance of bringing color back into fashion. “I’m sick of the monochromatic stuff,” he admits. “Even if it’s just the belt or the chains or something small, I think just a bit or pop of color always makes the outfit a bit more interesting.”
Life on the Road
Touring has provided 9lives with a sense of community that is often difficult to maintain from New Zealand. Sharing meals, hotel rooms, and stage time with peers like Lucy Bedroque and Kuru has turned the tour into a “dream come true.” As he looks toward the future, his goal remains simple: to create music that paints a picture and makes the listener’s day a little brighter.
