Rising Star Winnie Conlan Celebrates Debut Single Success

Winnie Conlan, a talented young artist from New Zealand, is celebrating the release of her debut single, “One Sided Love Getaway.” The song launched on Spotify last month, following her impressive performance in the national Play It Strange songwriting competition, where she secured second place among a record-breaking 194 entries.

The competition, which showcases the creativity of secondary school students across New Zealand, provided Winnie with an opportunity to record her single at Sublime Studios in the Waitaki Valley. Her achievement not only highlights her musical talent but also reflects the growing interest in young artists within the country.

In a recent statement, Winnie expressed her excitement at the positive reception of her music since the release. “It’s been amazing. I have had lots of people messaging me which is lovely. It’s quite cool. I logged into my Spotify account, and I have 91 listeners from the USA and around 390 from the United Kingdom, New Zealand and places all around the world,” she shared.

Inspiration for “One Sided Love Getaway” stemmed from Winnie’s observations of her peers entering relationships while she had yet to experience one herself, though she noted that she is now in a relationship. This personal connection to her music resonates with listeners, contributing to its appeal.

Winnie, a Year 12 student at Waitaki Girls’ High School, has continued to build her musical repertoire. Earlier this year, she recorded an EP at Sublime Studios alongside her longtime collaborator and best friend, Olivia Morriss. The duo gained recognition after winning the Harbour Street Jazz and Blues talent show in Oamaru in September.

Their talent was further acknowledged when they claimed the Smokefree Rockquest Best Vocals award in Timaru this year. They also secured first place in the duo category at this national competition for intermediate and high school bands throughout New Zealand.

As Winnie Conlan continues to rise in the music industry, her debut single marks a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. With a growing audience and multiple accolades already to her name, she is set to become a notable figure in the New Zealand music scene and beyond.