Entertainment
- MASSAV Records aims to support Southland artists from recording to live performances and promotion.
- Blair "Sav" Savory and Shane Evans lead the label to promote local talent like Lachie Hayes.
- MASSAV Records plans to grow Southland's musical identity and expand its reach across New Zealand.
MASSAV Records has officially launched, marking a major development for Southland’s music scene. Founded by local visionary Blair "Sav" Savory, the record label aims to amplify homegrown talent and take Southland’s unique sound nationwide.
Building on the success of his Invercargill-based studio and live music production company, MASSAV Productions, Sav saw the need to create a platform that would offer comprehensive support to local artists. "In four years, MASSAV Studios has become a vital space where local musicians can record their work," says Sav. "But recording is only the first step. MASSAV Records will help make sure these songs are heard."
Co-founder Shane Evans, who recently returned to Invercargill after a successful global career, shares this vision. Evans is keen to use his expertise in marketing to help regional artists gain recognition. "There’s a huge amount of untapped talent in this region," Evans says, emphasising the need for support in promotion and distribution.
The label’s first artist is singer-songwriter Lachie Hayes, a former Southland Entertainer of the Year. Hayes' upcoming album, produced with Delaney Davidson, is expected to draw significant attention. His debut single, ‘This River,’ is already generating excitement. "Lachie’s music will resonate with people far beyond Southland," says Sav.
MASSAV Records has ambitious plans for its artists, including a New Zealand tour and a roster of local talent ready to make their mark. The label’s goal is to work with one artist per year, providing them with all the resources they need to succeed, from recording new music to expanding live performance opportunities.
Sav’s music journey began in London, where he organised concerts and even created his own boutique music festival. Returning to Southland in 2008, he worked to bring national and local acts to the region, promoting events and building MASSAV Productions into a leading name in the local music industry. Now, with the launch of MASSAV Records, Sav is taking the next step in growing Southland’s musical identity.
MASSAV Records aims to provide artists with a one-stop-shop for success, offering everything from recording to promotion. "We’re helping to shape the cultural landscape of our region," says Sav, adding that the world is about to hear much more from Southland.