Janne GuitarGirl Spotlight On…

Although born in Waiouru, and having grown up with an army family, Denise did her schooling in Taupo.

She had a very encouraging music teacher at her intermediate school, and it wasn't long before she started to sing.

Denise joined a country music club at 20, and remembers loving the songs by Linda Ronstadt and the wider country/rock genre. Taking a leap of faith, she advertised in the local ‘Rock Shop' classifieds, looking for like-minded people who wanted to form a cover band.

Shabang was formed in 2010, and Denise says she's felt privileged to perform alongside many talented local musicians.

Now based in Tauranga, Denise performs lead vocals for Shabang and is joined by Adam Pendred (bass/vocals), Brendon Moratti (guitar/vocals) and John Hawley (drums).

They have played classic rock covers at many gigs and Denise loves performing at functions for birthdays, weddings and other milestone events.

She especially enjoyed a recent gig that saw the band flown to Waimate to perform at one of New Zealand's longest-running street racing events, Waimate 50.

Denise has also done some work in recording studios, providing backing vocals for other songwriters.

She will be performing with Shabang at Mills Reef for their ‘Dinner and Dance' Christmas functions on December 7-8, and also December 14-15, from 9pm. Be sure to get your tickets.