Kiwi R&B-pop artist Vince Harder will be breaking out the hits on the Lindauer Lawn between races at the Christchurch Casino NZ Trotting Cup Day.

What you have been up to recently? I have just got back from touring with Guy Sebastian on his sold-out Australian tour.

Any plans to return to the recording studio soon? I’m always in the studio! But I’m definitely working on another single release, if not before the end of the year then early next.

What’s on the cards for 2020? It’s looking pretty good so far. I’m planning on writing and releasing more original music and also focusing on more live performances throughout New Zealand and Australia.

Tell us about your first gig? I think my first ever proper gig was at the music festival Parachute. I formed my own band with a really lame name and started writing and performing originals. I had just finished up at EXCEL School of Performing Arts.

What’s one thing people probably don’t know about you? I’m a little obsessed with watching funny stuff on YouTube, especially Stephen Colbert and Trevor Noah.

What’s your favourite way to spend a Sunday afternoon? On the couch watching movies with my family and ordering Uber Eats.

Any new Kiwi artists that have caught your attention? Yeah, there’s heaps. I like JessB, she’s dope.

What album/song do you have on high rotation at the moment? I’ve just started rediscovering The Beatles Abbey Road remastered album and appreciating how epic they were as songwriters and musicians!

Do you have a pre- and/or post-show ritual? Yeah, pre-show you will always find me warming my voice up and doing one or two minutes of conscious breathing, and lately I’ve been having hot water and honey. Before I go on stage I usually also call my wife if she’s not there.

Who are your musical heroes? Of course MJ (Michael Jackson), Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, the Bee Gees and Usher to name a few.

Any plans for while you’re in Christchurch? Yeah, I’ll probably catch up with some friends and hit up Hello Sunday café for some good eats.

Addington Raceway & Events Centre,
Tue 12 Nov.
addington.co.nz