Singers’ new single tackles capitalism, conservation

CAITLIN’s newest single pits capitalism and kaitiakitanga against each other. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
CAITLIN’s newest single pits capitalism and kaitiakitanga against each other. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
A young Timaru-born musician is set to release her newest single, which discusses and combines the worlds of capitalism and kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the natural world).

Caitlin Bradley, 23, who goes by the artist name CAITLIN, grew up in Timaru but is now plying her trade in Ōtautahi (Christchurch).

The indie-pop artist developed a substantial following after the success of her single Light Leak, and is now back with her newest single What You Love , which releases tomorrow.

Bradley said the inspiration for the song came from completing degrees in business and music at university and her passion for exploring Aotearoa’s beautiful nature.

"[I] felt a massive wave of inspiration to write about environmental conservation and social inequality in decision-making power.

"As a kid, you’re told you can do anything and believe you can change the world — but as you become an adult, you realise that not everyone shares the same values you grew up on.

"It’s a tough realisation.

"I guess this song is a realisation that you can’t just come full guns blazing into the workforce and expect to change the world.

"Change takes time."

She said she had recently embarked on her journey to learn te reo Māori and discover more about her culture, whakapapa, and te ao Māori (Māori worldview).

"Traditional Māori worldviews share that people are not superior to nature but a part of it and are responsible for protecting the environment for future generations.

"What You Love connects deeply with this core value."

The music video for the single contains symbolic themes of capitalism vs kaitiakitanga, with scenes featuring "nature’s office" where life is choked out by pine and blackberry bushes, and men in suits chasing down CAITLIN as she flees to the native forest.

"I’m far from perfect but I think it’s important we talk about environmental conservation and continually be on the journey to decreasing our negative impact on the environment."

She highlighted the lyric "But the rich man’s always coming to strip you of what you love".

"[It’s] a harsh lyric, but an important call to organisations to consider their environmental impact."

What You Love by CAITLIN will be available to purchase and stream on all major platforms from August 2.

CONNOR.HALEY@timarucourier.co.nz