27/08/2026
Split Enz was one of New Zealand’s most original and influential bands, formed in 1972 by Tim Finn and Phil Judd. Originally called Split Ends, the group began with a folk-influenced, experimental sound before developing into an adventurous blend of art rock, progressive pop, new wave and, eventually, power pop. Their music was often unpredictable and eccentric, combining unusual arrangements with strong melodies and imaginative lyrics (although “I love azaleas” as an opening line to their hit “Poor Boy” took things to weird new places).
The band’s history was marked by frequent changes in membership and periods of financial struggle. They moved to Australia in 1975 and later spent time in Britain trying to establish an international career. Phil Judd left in 1977, after which Tim’s younger brother Neil Finn joined. This became a turning point: the Finn brothers developed a more accessible songwriting style that eventually produced major hits. Their breakthrough came with the 1980 album True Colours, featuring Neil Finn’s “I Got You”, which topped the charts in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. “Six Months in a Leaky Boat” didn’t chart so well in the UK, released as it was at about the time the British Navy was involved in the
Falklands war. Ooops!
Split Enz were famous for their theatrical stage performances. Member Noel Crombie created bizarre costumes, colourful outfits and distinctive hairstyles, while the band used unusual props and elaborate staging. Their appearance was as important as their music, helping them develop a devoted cult following. This look might have worked on stage but didn’t translate too well to the harsh clinical lights of the interview studio; at one early television appearance Tim Finn’s costume and makeup were so confronting neither the interviewer nor the audience knew what to make of him. He didn’t do that again.
After further albums and changing line-ups, Split Enz broke up in 1984. Their legacy remains enormous, particularly in NZ and Australia, where their eccentric creativity and the Finn brothers’ songwriting helped shape the region’s popular music.
Split Enz - on all morning with Madmacs Coffee, bro 🤟🏻
