Two of Aotearoa's most celebrated artists, Bic Runga and Ladyhawke, come together for one of the most honest and heartfelt conversations yet on Episode 5 of GLOW Stories.
In a candid and deeply personal discussion, the acclaimed musicians reflect on decades in the industry, the confidence that comes with experience, and why they're creating some of the strongest music of their careers.
Although they've crossed paths for years, the episode marks the first time the pair have shared an intimate one-on-one conversation. As Bic says, \"We've spoken a lot, but it's always around millions of other people... We've never actually had a sit down.\"
What follows is a warm and revealing exchange between two artists who quickly discover just how much their journeys have in common, from navigating the pressures of the music industry and raising families to rebuilding confidence and embracing creative independence.
Ladyhawke opens up about her forthcoming album, describing it as both her most personal and most rewarding project to date. \"This record is quite a special one for me. I feel like it's the best thing I've ever done,\" she says, explaining that the record represents a rebirth after years of personal growth. \"I'm 12 years sober... I'm finally comfortable in who I am. I'm a mum, I'm in my 40s, and I just don't care like that anymore. I just want to do my thing and make music.\"
Bic reflects on releasing her first album of original material in 15 years, revealing that stepping away from industry expectations ultimately gave her the freedom to create entirely on her own terms. \"It's nice to have a new album that's independent and just doing things in my own way and in my own time,\" she shares.
Together, the pair candidly discuss the impossible standards often placed on women in music, the pressure to conform, and the confidence that comes with experience. Ladyhawke recalls being told, \"I was too old when I was in my twenties. I had to lie about my age. I got told I couldn't be gay,\" while Bic reflects that perspective eventually drowns out those voices. \"It just comes with age... You reject all that noise anyway.\"
Beyond music, the conversation ventures into everything from Ladyhawke's love of vintage gaming consoles and Twitch communities to analogue recording techniques, songwriting, and the reasons imperfections often make records timeless. The pair also discuss the importance of supporting artists and the role music plays in people's lives, with Bic observing that \"Music is a marker for moments in your life... It's so important.\"
One of the episode's most moving moments comes as both artists reflect on what they would tell their younger selves. Ladyhawke's answer is both emotional and empowering: \"I wish I could go back in time and tell myself, 'You're awesome. You're a really good person. You're good at what you do. Believe in yourself.'\"
Honest, funny and deeply human, Episode 5 of GLOW Stories is a conversation about resilience, creativity and the freedom that comes from trusting your instincts, reclaiming your voice and creating without compromise. It captures two of New Zealand's most respected artists at a point in their lives where authenticity matters more than expectation—and the music is all the better for it.