Music Is Meant to Be Shared – Help Stenn Francis-Deare Finish His Album!

After years of dedication and hard work, Stenn is set to release his debut album—an ambitious, collaborative record crafted at New Zealand’s iconic Roundhead Studios. Blending country, folk-rock, and baroque-pop influences, the album showcases an incredible lineup of musicians. Produced by Navakatoa Tekela-Pule (Noa Records) and engineered by De Stevens (Erny Belle, Office Dog, Ringlets), it captures the raw energy of live performance whilst also layering rich, intricate textures.

Now, with the music complete, the final, crucial step is creating compelling visuals—music videos, photography, and promotional content—to give this album the launch it deserves. With your support, this record can reach the audience it was made for and truly come to life.

Stenn Francis-Deare is an alternative singer-songwriter based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland, NZ). Raised in a richly artistic environment, he developed a deep appreciation for collaboration, storytelling, and musical experimentation. His debut album, set for release in mid 2025, is the culmination of years of dedication and creative exploration.

Producer Navakatoa Tekela-Pule (Noa Records, LEAO, Erny Belle) tirelessly shaped the record to completion as well as providing bass lines and backing vocals that weave seamlessly into the arrangements. Engineer and co-mixer De Stevens (Erny Belle, Ringlets) helped capture the raw energy of the sessions. Multi-instrumentalist Callum Lee (Rewind Fields) contributed creative production and arrangement elements, layered harmonies and unique instrumentation, while drummer Hamish Morgan (Marlins Dreaming, School Fair) anchored the album with a strong rhythmic foundation and understated brilliance.

The album also features stunning contributions from some of Aotearoa’s most talented musicians, including Carla Camilleri (Fazerdaze, Recitals, CCTV) on backing vocals, Zöe Larsen Cumming (Babe Martin) on backing vocals and Wurlitzer, Dave Khan (Marlon Williams, Reb Fountain, The Veils) on pedal steel, Levi Gemmell (LEAO) on lap steel and Lily Van Buskirk (Timpani Decot) on backing vocals.

With its rich textures and deeply collaborative spirit, this record is a testament to the power of a very strong musical community in Tāmaki Makaurau.

This campaign is raising money to create high-quality visual material that will give Stenn Francis-Deare’s debut album the launch it deserves. A strong visual presence is essential for connecting with audiences and ensuring the music reaches as many people as possible. Funds raised will go toward:

• Music Videos – Captivating visuals to bring key songs to life and engage new listeners.
• Press Photos & Album Artwork – Professional imagery to represent the album across media, streaming platforms, and promotional materials.
• Paid Advertising – Targeted social media campaigns to reach a wider audience and generate momentum.

Every contribution will directly support the creation of compelling visuals that match the care and dedication poured into the music itself.

This album is the result of years of growth, collaboration, and a deep commitment to honest storytelling. After producing and writing the music alone, Stenn brought together a trusted group of musicians to shape the songs into something greater. The core tracks were recorded live in a single day, capturing a raw, organic energy, while careful layering over the following 9 months allowed the music to evolve naturally.

Lyrically, the songs serve as personal journal entries, reflecting different stages of life—from teenage heartbreak (“Someone Else”) to the weight of familial history (“Turned Out Great”). Each track offers an intimate glimpse into Stenn’s world, balancing vulnerability with thoughtful storytelling.

Supporting this project goes beyond just one album—it helps sustain a creative community. Independent artists rely on visual storytelling to connect with audiences, and in today’s industry, compelling imagery is just as vital as the music itself. By backing this campaign, you’re not only ensuring that Stenn’s work reaches its full potential, but also supporting the talented musicians, filmmakers, designers, and creatives involved in bringing it to life.

Innovation in music doesn’t happen in isolation. It thrives when artists have the resources to push boundaries and create something meaningful. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration—a group of musicians, producers, and visual artists working together to craft something truly special. Your support helps sustain that ecosystem, allowing independent artists to continue making bold, innovative work and strengthening Aotearoa’s vibrant music scene.