Annie Crummer brings her West Akl heart to Titirangi Festival

The Titirangi Festival of Music (TFM) returns this Labour Weekend, bringing the spirit of West Auckland to life and showcasing both beloved and emerging talents of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Set in the lush surroundings of Titirangi Village, the event is a vibrant celebration of diverse communities, creativity, and connection, where music and food lovers gather for a weekend filled with live performances, market food, and local street talents.

Adored Cook Islands-Tahitian singer-songwriter Annie Crummer is set to headline the concert, performing an intimate, soulful set with her six-piece band at DECO Eater, Lopdell House.

Speaking on 531pi Pacific Days, Crummer expressed her delight at performing close to home.

“Apparently, it’s been around for like double-digit years and then Covid came along. I believe this is the first time that they've opened up the pine trees over there to start the ball rolling again.

“I was absolutely thrilled to have been invited to come and perform for our people out west - because I am from Avondale, actually.”

Watch Annie Crummer's full interview below.

Funded by the Trusts Community Foundation, Whau and Waitākere Ranges Local Boards, TFM promises a two-day lineup that brings the “magic of music and togetherness” with performances from Anika Moa, Black Comet (ft. Laughton Kora), MELJEN Kūki ‘Āirani Tamaine duo, Mana Le Afi fire dancing, The Kelston Khoir, Niuean singer Malcom Lakatani, and more.

Crummer will also be joined by rising talent Arjuna Oakes, a singer-songwriter and jazz musician celebrated for his soulful voice and unique blend of jazz, soul, and contemporary songwriting.

Titirangi Festival of Music will take place from 25 to 26 October, featuring both free and ticketed concerts. Tickets are available here.

Born and raised in West Auckland, Crummer’s musical journey began as a teenager when her debut single, Once or Twice, climbed to the 16th spot on the 1968 New Zealand charts.

She went on to become one of the most recognised voices in Aotearoa as a member of the all-female entertainment phenomenon, When the Cat’s Away. Crummer has shared the stage with international music legends including Michael Jackson, Sting, Ray Charles, Paul McCartney, and Jimmy Barnes.

Despite her global experiences, Crummer’s heart remains grounded in family. She often speaks of her father, the revered Cook Islands musician Will Crummer, as her first and greatest inspiration.

“The coolest thing that's ever happened really is being able to sing with my dad,” she says.“I was doing support for Sting, it was about three and a half weeks throughout Australia. He came out and watched my first show and pulled me aside afterwards and asked me to sing with him in his set.

“I count my blessings every day that I've been blessed with Dad's leftovers in terms of the music.”

That familial connection carries through to every show. Whether joking about seeing fans at Pak’nSave, sharing stories and insights between songs, or engaging in live banter with her band, Crummer’s concerts have unmistakable warmth.

She describes her work not as performing for people, but with them, and she relishes the opportunity to create a relatable atmosphere.

Now celebrating her 60th year, Crummer reflects with humour and honesty on a life shaped by song.

“I'm way, way older and a lot more experienced, I suppose. Had a lot of frickin' amazing things happen, but also some horrific, dumb train wreck decisions that I've also made. Who doesn't? That’s how we learn.

“And now I really see how people connect to me…I always say, ‘See you at Pak’nSave’ at the end, and they all crack up. It makes me feel like I’m serving you with all my heart.”