A new New Zealand-built music platform is aiming to change the way people discover and support artists, with the launch of Lume, a digital music app that puts albums and musicians at the centre of the listening experience.
Launching globally from day one, Lume features an opening catalogue made up entirely of New Zealand artists, with international releases expected to be added in the coming months. The app has attracted support from musicians who say its business model provides a more sustainable way for artists to earn income from their work.
Unlike traditional streaming platforms, Lume does not operate on a monthly subscription model. Instead, users purchase digital albums individually for NZ$24.99, receiving what the creators describe as a “digital box set” that includes bonus material such as demos, live performances, photographs, videos and behind-the-scenes content. Once purchased, the albums remain permanently in the user’s collection.
The platform says 80 percent of net revenue from each sale is returned to artists and their rights holders, offering a significantly different approach to the streaming economy, where musicians often rely on millions of plays to generate meaningful income.
Lume was established in September 2025 by a team including media entrepreneur Duncan Greive, music executive Justin Warren, Tim Harper and Sacha Judd. The venture has secured backing from investors including international music star Lorde, alongside founders from technology companies Substack and Letterboxd.
The launch catalogue includes albums from some of Aotearoa’s best-known artists, including Bic Runga, Fur Patrol, Fazerdaze, Phoenix Foundation, Reb Fountain, Tiki Taane, Troy Kingi, Vera Ellen, Theia and Dick Move. More releases are planned each month, with Lorde’s 2025 album Virgin also expected to arrive on the platform later this year with exclusive additional material.
The app has been developed around the idea that albums remain the creative centrepiece for many musicians, even as streaming platforms increasingly favour individual songs and algorithm-driven playlists. Users are encouraged to experience albums from beginning to end while exploring the stories, recordings and creative process behind the music.
Lume has also worked with organisations including Recorded Music NZ and APRA AMCOS to ensure artists’ rights and chart eligibility are recognised as the platform expands.
Its founders say the goal is not to replace streaming services but to create a space where music fans can build lasting collections while directly supporting the artists whose work they value.
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