Introduction
In the heart of the 1960s, a song emerged from the shadows of a hit single to captivate the hearts and minds of a nation. “Ten Guitars,” a ballad penned by Gordon Mills and crooned by Engelbert Humperdinck, found its home in New Zealand, where it transcended its origins to become an enduring symbol of Kiwi culture.
Released in 1967 as the B-side to Humperdinck’s chart-topping “Release Me,” “Ten Guitars” initially garnered little attention outside of its native England. However, across the Tasman Sea, the song struck a chord with New Zealanders, resonating with their love for music and community.
The song’s infectious melody and upbeat rhythm, coupled with Humperdinck’s smooth vocals, quickly propelled “Ten Guitars” to the top of the New Zealand charts. It became a staple at weddings, parties, and funerals, its lyrics about a band of ten guitarists wooing women with their musical prowess endearing it to the Kiwi spirit.
The song’s popularity was further fueled by its association with the Maori strumming style, a rhythmic guitar technique that had been popularized by Maori musicians in the 1950s and 1960s. This connection to Maori culture solidified “Ten Guitars” as a beloved folk song, earning it the unofficial title of “New Zealand’s national anthem.”
Beyond its musical significance, “Ten Guitars” also holds a special place in New Zealand’s social history. It served as a unifying force, bringing together people from all walks of life and fostering a sense of national pride. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to capture the essence of the Kiwi spirit.
In the decades that followed, “Ten Guitars” continued to be a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in films and television shows. It remains a staple of New Zealand’s musical heritage, a reminder of the power of music to unite a nation and transcend cultural boundaries.