Two-piece powerhouse duo Teenage Joans are the latest artist to take over Live Nation & Vodafone’s ONES TO WATCH programme, after being named as the February artist. Their self-described juice box pop-punk sound has fans transfixed, and it’s clear that these two are ready to make waves in the music industry.
After meeting for the first time in 2018 through a mutual friend, Cahli Blakers and Tahlia Borg formed an instant connection. The duo entered and won the Triple J Unearthed High competition, catapulting them onto a nationwide stage. From there, they performed at the iconic Laneway Festival and A Day of Clarity in 2019, and started to prove themselves as ones to watch across the country.
In January 2021, Teenage Joans released the lead single ‘Something About Being Sixteen’, from their debut EP ‘Taste of Me’. Described as “a thrilling formal introduction to their cathartic, bittersweet pop-punk” by NME’s Alex Gallagher, the EP won them a record-breaking seven awards at the 2021 South Australian Music Awards, including Best Group, Best Release, and Best Song.
Their punchy lyrics, bass-heavy drums and captivating vocals all contribute to their signature sound, as well as the inspiration they take from bands including Camp Cope, Tired Lion, and the riot grrrl movement. Since bursting onto the scene, they’ve played across Australia alongside iconic local acts including Courtney Barnett, Sly Withers and are currently in the middle of a trio of headline shows across Australia.
Live Nation promoter Renee Hermsen has this to say: “Raw energy, great vocals and incredibly catchy tunes which immediately make you long to be back in high school. All written and performed by 2 very cool girls. I like everything about this band!”
ONES TO WATCH has kicked off 2022 with Mo Etc. as the first artist of the year, and with Teenage Joans joining the slate, it’s set to be an epic year of local music. Other programme alumni include ONONO, Rhys Rich, There’s a Tuesday, Muroki, Daily J, Balu Brigada and PollyHill, proving that the local talent in Australasia is that of a global standard.
Launched in 2017 in the United States, ONES TO WATCH has helped boost the careers of artists now reaching global stages, including Halsey and Grammy-award winning Dua Lipa, who has recently embarked on a global tour, including a New Zealand pit-stop planned for November.
On the February artist, Joe Goddard, Experience & Commercial Director at Vodafone NZ: "This program is all about propelling the best up and comers into the public eye and Teenage Joans have the youthful energy that Vodafone loves to see succeed. With a pause on most events across New Zealand, it's important to get out there and support creatives in any way you can."
After launching an exclusive long-term partnership in 2019, Live Nation Australasia and Vodafone New Zealand have provided Vodafone customers access to Live Nation’s entertainment portfolio including music, family and comedy tours and festivals across the country. The strategic multi-year partnership is committed to bringing the best live experiences to New Zealand and the best New Zealand artists to the world. The unique emerging talent platform of ONES TO WATCH builds on this strong partnership and a mutual dedication to support grassroots initiatives.
As well as access to the online platform, Vodafone customers will be given the chance to win tickets to the ONES TO WATCH invitation-only quarterly showcase events. More info and competition details available at: vodafone.co.nz/music