HowardMorrison
- Performer
His name was synonymous with entertainment in New Zealand. Dubbed Ol' Brown Eyes — Māoridom's version of Frank Sinatra — Howard Morrison's voice and charisma carried him through decades of success both here and abroad. From the Howard Morrison Quartet to time as a solo performer, Morrison's take on songs like 'How Great Thou Art' ensured his waiata an enduring place at the top of local playlists.
Biography
Howard Morrison was born on August 18, 1935 in Rotorua, one of six children born to Temuera Morrison, a former Māori All Black, and entertainer Kahurangi Morrison (also known as Gertrude Harete Davidson). His siblings included future Ngāti Rangiwehiwehi kapahaka leader Atareta Maxwell, Judith Merenia Tapsell, Rene Mitchell and Linda Morrison.
Screenography
Awards
2007 Creative New Zealand Award
Te Tohu Tiketike a Te Waka Toi - Award for Maori Artists
1994 New Zealand Film and Television Award
Best Entertainment Programme: for Howard Morrison: Now Is The Hour
Nominated for Best Performer in an Entertainment Programme: for Now is the Hour
“I remember as a young boy, growing up – we were always told to stand up and make a speech, stand up and sing a song, do this and do that ... when I look back, he was grooming us, training us for our journey.”
