In 2019 one of the Waiata Māori Music Awards Iconic recipients was Abe Phillips.

With the Shadracks as their featured vocalist, the band were a Hastings-based popular item in the late 1960s early 70s and played on a regular basis at The Mayfair Hotel on Karamu Road. Various well-known entertainers like Prince Tui Teka often did a spot at what was in that time a legendary venue.

Abe went solo in 1971 and was on his way to international stardom, but on his way back from a Wellington concert on December 18th of that year he died in a car accident between Waipawa and Waipukurau.  

With his strong, beautiful voice Abe recorded just 4 songs on 2 records. Two solo and 2 with The Shadracks.  One of those songs was ‘Don’t Think You Remember Me’.

Well Abe, as others have said you will be remembered, recognised, and celebrated as you are here.   There is also a facebook page dedicated to him & the Shadracks.