A Kiwi music legend, renowned for his soulful voice and iconic hits like "Dragons and Demons" and "Angels", leaving an indelible mark on New Zealand's rock music scene.
Known for his iconic work with the band Hello Sailor and his own band, The Pink Flamingos, Dave McArtney left an indelible mark on the music industry. As a talented musician and songwriter, he penned some of New Zealand's most beloved songs, earning him a place in the country's music hall of fame.
Born on April 5, 1951, in Oamaru, New Zealand, McArtney's family moved to Auckland and then Wellington in the early 1960s. He began studying law before forming Hello Sailor with Harry Lyon and Graham Brazier, marking the start of his illustrious music career.
After Hello Sailor disbanded in 1980, McArtney formed The Pink Flamingos with Dragon keyboard player and songwriter Paul Hewson. With a revolving lineup of players, the band released their debut album, Dave McArtney & The Pink Flamingos, in 1981, under PolyGram records. The album was followed by the EP Remember The Alamo and extensive touring in New Zealand.
The band then relocated to Sydney and signed to Polygram Australia, releasing their second album, We Never Close, in 1982. Later that year, the group disbanded, with McArtney moving to London. Upon his return to New Zealand in 1984, he recorded The Pink Flamingos' third album, The Catch, released under CBS.
| Albums | |
|---|---|
| Dave McArtney & The Pink Flamingos (1981) | PolyGram records |
| We Never Close (1982) | Polygram Australia |
| The Catch (1984) | CBS |
McArtney's contributions to music earned him two APRA Silver Scroll nominations in 1981 and 1995. He received five awards for his work, cementing his status as a music legend in New Zealand.
In 1989, McArtney returned to university, completing his Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature, majoring in Renaissance poetry. He then went on to complete a Master of Arts in Music degree in 2013. During this time, he also produced music for other artists, including The Narcs, and composed music for film and television productions, such as Incredible Mountains (1983), Queen City Rocker (1986), and Raglan by the Sea (1987).
From 2003 until his passing, McArtney worked as a tutor at the Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand (MAINZ), sharing his knowledge and expertise with the next generation of musicians.
Dave McArtney's impact on New Zealand's music scene is immeasurable. His contributions as a musician, songwriter, and educator continue to inspire and influence artists to this day. His music remains a beloved part of New Zealand's cultural heritage, ensuring his legacy will endure for generations to come.
McArtney passed away on April 15, 2013, at his home in Point Chevalier, Auckland, but his music and spirit live on, a testament to his enduring talent and influence.
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