Aaron Tokona | |
---|---|
Birth name | Aaron Arana Tokona |
Also known as | AHoriBuzz |
Born | Tauranga, New Zealand | 28 October 1975
Died | (aged 44) |
Genres | Rock, dub, funk, folk rock |
Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter |
Instrument(s) | Vocals, guitar |
Years active | 1990s–2020 |
Labels | Loop |
Aaron Arana Tokona (28 October 1975 – 20 June 2020)[1] was a New Zealand guitarist and singer.
Tokona was descended from Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Maniapoto. This heritage played a significant role in his upbringing through his grandparents, who were well versed in Māoritanga, and inspired him as a performer after seeing other Māori artists, such as Billy T. James and Prince Tui Teka.[2] Tokona grew up in Naenae, Lower Hutt and attending Naenae College. It was while attending the school, that he took part in the Smokefree Rockquest that help launch his musical career.[3]
He performed as AHoriBuzz and was part of bands Weta, Cairo Knife Fight, Bongmaster and Fly My Pretties, and collaborated with some of New Zealand's most noted musicians.[4][5][6][7]
Tokona died on 20 June 2020 after suffering a heart attack at home. He had one daughter.[1][2]