Kirsten Morrell, the lead singer of Aotearoa icons Goldenhorse, has released the music video for her latest single, “Hoping & Wishing”.
Serving as a tribute to a dear friend, the track features classical guitarist Barkin Sertkaya, and is the first glimpse of her second solo album, Morrellium, set for release in March of next year.
Morrell’s voice, long admired for its clarity and warmth, carries the weight of experience without ever feeling heavy-handed. On ‘Hoping & Wishing’, that trademark charm is paired with understated instrumentation, allowing her words and emotions to take centre stage. The single also highlights her willingness to experiment and collaborate, bridging classical textures with contemporary songwriting.
Born during a turbulent period for Morrell, who was navigating a move away from London due to the neighbouring war in Ukraine, Morrell had music mentoring sessions with Robin White, a prominent composer, conductor, and festival founder.
Following his passing earlier this year, she wrote what she calls “an anti-hate song.”
The lyric video, crafted with Fiverr animator Upa H, pairs delicate sketch-book visuals with the track’s introspective tone. “Collaborating on this video was deeply intentional,” says Morrell. “It’s a moment to speak to the heart. The visuals reflect current events through emotion and human connection, rather than commentary.
“When the world was in chaos and I felt crippled and unable to help others. Writing freed me of that feeling.”
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Morrell’s illustrious career spans more than 15 years, from Goldenhorse’s triple-platinum debut Riverhead to her 2010 solo album Ultraviolet. The band’s classic hit “Maybe Tomorrow” became a Kiwi favourite and earned them an APRA Silver Scroll and New Zealand Music Award. “Maybe Tomorrow” featured in our Best Australian & New Zealand Songs of the 21st Century So Far list.
Alongside performing, Morrell has written operettas, worked with NZ Opera and TAPAC, led marketing campaigns for local arts projects, and most recently performed in Handel’s Messiah with Auckland Choral.
Kirsten Morrell’s “Hoping & Wishing” is out now.
