Hey everyone,
Mike Chunn CNZM, a luminary in New Zealand's music scene, is set to conclude his tenure as Creative Director of the Play It Strange Trust at the end of 2024. This marks the culmination of 21 years that began with Play It Strange’s inception in 2003, during which Chunn has been instrumental in nurturing the songwriting talents of New Zealand's youth. His passion, vision, and unparalleled dedication have not only transformed the lives of several thousand budding musicians but also enriched the cultural heartbeat of Aotearoa.
Born in London in 1952, Mike’s musical journey commenced in Auckland at Sacred Heart College from where he co-founded the iconic band Split Enz as bassist in 1972. During his time with Split Enz, Mike played a key role in the band’s early experimental sound, contributing his bass playing to the groundbreaking album Mental Notes This was recorded and released in 1975 after their move to Australia. Mental Notes reached No. 7 in New Zealand charts and No. 35 in Australia. With an art-rock fusion, Split Enz became known for their unique, theatrical shows. This set the band apart on the New Zealand and international music scenes, earning them a dedicated following and critical acclaim. In 1976 the band moved to England where they recorded their second album Second Thoughts.
Mike left Split Enz due to his struggles with agoraphobia, an issue he has openly discussed to raise awareness about mental health, and in 1999, Mike became a board member of The Phobic Trust in support of the cause.
Following his departure from Split Enz in 1977, Mike co-founded Citizen Band with his brother Geoffrey Chunn, further cementing his status as a pivotal figure in New Zealand's music history during its three years, eventually leaving that band for the same reasons.
Recognising a passion for spotting talent, Mike moved sideways into the business side of the music industry, becoming the General Manager of Mushroom Records, where he recognised their early talents and signed DD Smash and The Dance Exponents, before becoming the General Manager at Sony Music Publishing NZ.
During a pivotal time of recognising the value of music and what it brings to our lives on the public platform, from 1991 to 2003, Mike spent eleven years as Director of New Zealand Operations for the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA), where he was instrumental establishing the now legendary style of the annual APRA Silver Scroll Awards and NZ Music Month, which was an integral factor in the increase of Kiwi music played on commercial radio.
In 2002, he was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to music, an honour that was elevated in 2013 when he became a Companion of the same order, for services to New Zealand music and men's mental health. His advocacy for mental health awareness is particularly personal, with Mike openly sharing his journey with agoraphobia to inspire and support others. In 2016, he received a Scroll of Honour from the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand for services to New Zealand entertainment.
In 2003, Mike cofounded the Play It Strange Trust, a charitable organisation dedicated to fostering songwriting among secondary school students across New Zealand. Under his leadership, the trust has provided platforms for thousands of young musicians to write, record, and perform their original songs, significantly contributing to the development of the country's musical talent.
Throughout his tenure, Mike has been a passionate advocate for the transformative power of music. He has emphasised the importance of songwriting as a means of personal expression and emotional exploration for young people. His vision has been to create opportunities for youth to find their voices through music, leading to the production of thousands of original songs and the professional recording of numerous tracks by young artists. Play It Strange alumni include Kimbra, Annah Mac, Louis Baker, Georgia Nott of Broods, Liz Stokes of The Beths, Rebel Reid, CHAII, Luca George and international dance music sensation Graham Candy.
After twenty years at the helm of Play It Strange, in November 2023, Mike transitioned from his role as CEO to Creative Director, focusing on the artistic and mentoring aspects of the Trust. During this period, he continued to inspire and guide young songwriters, sharing his extensive experience and insights into the music industry. Play It Strange Board Chair Fred Soar says, “We have heartfelt thanks for Mike’s leadership in founding the Trust and leading it into the organisation it has become over the last 21 years”.
Throughout his time at Play It Strange, more than 7000 original songs have been entered into their competitions, with over 1000 songs recorded professionally. Most importantly, Mike’s little idea has evolved into an organisation renowned nationwide, and has provided a space where rangatahi can express feelings, further cementing Mike’s ongoing journey to support mental health. Nick Roberts, Music HoD at Kaipara College and Play It Strange trustee says “The song doesn't end here for Mike, wonderful Mike. It is because of his foresight and determination that so many students from my little school and so many others from around the country have been able to find their voices. Mike is an extraordinary man.”
As he steps down from this role at the end of 2024, Mike will continue to contribute to the Trust as a songwriting competition judge and through his fortnightly articles, Mike's Musings, where he shares reflections on music, songwriting, and key Play It Strange moments in time. His enduring commitment to nurturing young talent ensures that his influence will continue to resonate within the music community of Aotearoa.
As Play It Strange moves forward, it does so on the foundation of Mike’s tireless work. His legacy is a reminder of music’s transformative power and its ability to empower and elevate young voices—a gift that will resonate for generations to come.
