Joel Little’s Big Fan a Gift to the Music Industry

Walk into the unembellished black building tucked away in Morningside, Auckland, later this year and there’s no telling what musical superstars one might find, Leena Tailor writes in an exclusive story for Variety. The possibilities are endless as Grammy-winning musician Joel Little, 39, unveils Big Fan, the multimillion-dollar, non-profit music facility that he and wife Gemma have spent two years pouring time, energy and savings into.

With four recording studios and a 180-capacity music venue, the state-of-the-art project is the couple’s “gift” to the music industry, one they hope will help locals fulfil their musical ambitions, whether it’s through studio access, mentoring or simply having somewhere to play their first show or discover their passion for lighting, sound or event management, Tailor writes.

“The main goal’s getting people to the next level, whether it’s writing their first song, writing with a big artist or just getting enjoyment from making music,” Little says.

Little is best known for his work as a writer and producer with artists including Lorde, Taylor Swift, Broods and Sam Smith.

Original article by Leena Tailor, Variety, April 6, 2022.

Photo by Guy Coombes.