Emerging R&B Sensation & 2026 Pacific Music Award-winning Artist Talia Perese Lands Feature in Rolling Stone AU-NZ.

Rolling Stone AU/NZ highlighted South Auckland rising star Talia Perese as part of their “Song You Need to Know” series for her new single Groundhog Day with MELODOWNZ and Zhuli.

The feature praises the 2026 Pacific Music Award winner (Most Promising Pacific Artist) for seamlessly blending old-school UK Garage with her signature R&B-pop style. It spotlights her impressive output alongside collaborators Zhuli and MELODOWNZ, cementing her as one of Aotearoa’s most exciting young talents to watch.

Read the full article here!

About Talia Perese:

Talia Perese is emerging as a fresh new voice in R&B and soul. Raised in Manurewa, South Auckland, she grew up singing alongside her older sister while her younger brother played guitar – a passion deeply tied to her Cook Islands, Māori, Samoan, and European roots. After attending Auckland Girls’ Grammar and later transferring to MH in Year 11, Talia found her sound, blending her love for jazzy instrumentals, rich melodies, and soul-driven vocals. Inspired by artists like Ariana Grande, Amelia Moore, and SAILORR, she crafts music that feels both timeless and emotionally raw. Now working with viral TikTok producer EDYONTHEBEAT, who is also managing her, Talia is quickly building momentum. With her first recordings underway and RCA Records (home to artists like SZA, Doja Cat, and H.E.R.) recently reaching out to express interest, her journey from a passionate young singer to a rising artist is becoming reality. With her debut music on the horizon, Talia Perese is ready to share her story, her culture, and her soul with the world, and this is only the beginning.