It was already a kiwi classic, but Dobbo's just gone and made his 1986 hit 'Slice of Heaven' even more of a defining song for Aotearoa.
In September, 35 years ago, Dave Dobbyn released ‘Slice of Heaven’, one of New Zealand‘s most loved and enduring songs. The single spent eight weeks at No 1 (and four in Australia) and transitioned through physical sales in 1986 to its current 40 million streams.
To coincide with the anniversary, and Māori Language Week, Sir Dave unveils ‘Hine Ruhi – Slice of Heaven’, a new recording of the song in Māori, translated by mātanga reo/language expert Hana Mereraiha. “The translation is wonderful“ says Dobbyn. “Hana Mereraiha worked skilfully on the imagery and the vocal rhythm. It was a delight working with her.”
Also available will be a ‘You Sing’ version of both the recording and video, with Sir Dave’s vocals removed.
Co-Producer/engineer/mixer for the recording session at Parachute Studios was Nic Manders. Ross Burge (drums and percussion) and Jo Barus (bass), Dobbyn’s long-standing rhythm section, were joined by Guy Harrison (Keys and trumpet) and JY Lee (saxophone).
Reo Coach was Hana Mereraiha, with musician and producer, Sam Taylor guiding Dobbyn through the recording session. Ruki Tobin and Taylor recorded the compelling backing vocals.
Dobbyn’s first reo Māori recording was in 2017 with ‘Nau Mai Rā - Welcome Home’, now nudging one million streams.
