1 Drop Nation release funk-filled tune ‘Supernova’ featuring Laughton Kora

Otauhtaui’s 1 Drop Nation have today released their first single of 2025, Supernova featuring local legend, Laughton Kora.

Listen to Supernova here

Bursting with upbeat rhythms and high-energy funk, Supernova is a dynamic, electrifying track that was made to be performed live.

Created during a rehearsal when 1 Drop Nation was messing around, the song took on a life of its own, and the band decided to run with it.

“We took the song to Wellington and collaborated with Laughton Kora to make the magic that it has become,” says Kanei Johnson, the group’s lead vocalist.

1 Drop Nation’s guitarist Paerau Hemopo, who wrote the track, says, “We wanted to create a funky tune connecting the universe. It’s a love story that speaks of a journey through the cosmos. The light from a supernova can light up a whole galaxy, much brighter than the sun. So it is to say, ‘I will be your light in the Darkness.’

We hope our listeners think of what is beyond, and having each other’s back while embarking towards the unknown.”
Supernova comes hot on the heels of the uplifting and timely tune, Proud, which the six-piece released in late November 2024. Watch the video for Proud’ here.

1 Drop Nation has become one of Aotearoa’s must-see acts with an electrifying live show that engages the crowd from start to finish. The band released their 5-star-reviewed, self-titled debut album in December 2022, leading to their second album Moment In Time in 2023.

The band is made up of Derin Thompson (keyboards, backing vocals / Nga Tai Ki Torere), Paerau Hemopo (guitar / Ngāi Tahu, Te Arawa, Ngā Puhi), Burke Goffe (guitar / Ngā Puhi, Te Ātiawa) Marc Hansen (drums), Dru Sione (bass, backing vocals), and Kanei Johnson (lead vocals / Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu).

Catch the band next opening the mainstage of Electric Avenue in Christchurch on Friday February 21 at 2.30pm.