Theia: New Zealand's Electrifying Pop Rock Force

Theia is the stage name of Em-Haley Walker, a compelling singer-songwriter from Christchurch, New Zealand. Her career ignited with the 2016 viral hit "Roam," which achieved platinum certification in her home country and established her as a bold new voice in pop rock.

Early career

Em-Haley Walker began crafting her musical identity as a teenager, drawing from a wide palette of alternative rock and pop influences. She officially launched the Theia project in 2015, quickly attracting industry attention with her self-released debut single "Silver Second".

Breakthrough

Theia's major breakthrough arrived in 2016 with the release of her anthemic single "Roam". The track was certified Platinum in New Zealand, received high-rotation radio play, and was added to influential playlists globally, leading to a signing with Warner Music New Zealand.

Key tracks

Roam — This platinum-certified anthem served as Theia's explosive introduction to a global audience, defining her gritty pop rock sound.

Champagne Supernova — A 2017 cover of the Oasis classic that showcased her powerful vocal interpretation and gained significant streaming traction.

Bad Idea — A 2018 collaboration with singer-songwriter Josh Fountain that highlighted her evolving, more electronic-tinged production style.

99% — A defiant and energetic 2021 single that marked a return to her guitar-driven roots with a modern pop edge.

Following her initial success, Theia consistently released a string of well-received singles and EPs, including 2019's "Not Your Baby" EP. She has performed at major New Zealand festivals and supported international acts, continually refining a sound that balances raw rock energy with sharp pop melodies.

Artists exploring a similar fusion of bold pop and rock energy from New Zealand include BENEE who shares a knack for quirky, guitar-infused pop anthems. Lorde exemplifies the same dark, atmospheric pop sensibility that influences Theia's work. For the rock-oriented side of her sound, check out The Beths and their expertly crafted guitar pop. The driving alternative rock energy can also be found in Alien Weaponry, though channeled through a thrash metal lens.

Theia's catalog receives regular airplay across a spectrum of radio formats, from mainstream pop stations that champion local hitmakers to alternative rock radio stations seeking energetic guitar-driven tracks. Her music is also a staple on online rock radio streams and independent music radio stations that curate forward-thinking pop rock.

You can experience the powerful sound of Theia on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover her biggest hits and latest releases through our curated selection of dedicated music stations.