Guitar legend plays for peace

PEACE AND MUSIC: Billy TK Semior is returning to Whanganui this weekend. PHOTO/DEVYN STAINES

Billy TK Senior is returning to Whanganui, bringing his unique message of music and peace.

The 1960s and 1970s Kiwi rock guitar legend will play a concert at Whanganui Arts at the Centre this weekend. Billy last played in Whanganui in January 2015.

The concert will combine his rock and blues music with his message about peace, something he's passionate about.

"In my younger days, music was my focus, but now peace is my focus, and music supports that. Everyone has inner peace, it's just a matter of finding it. It's important for everybody to find it, because there will be no world peace without inner peace."

The concert starts with a welcome and guided meditation by Billy, followed by his music.

Guest artists joining him include blues musician Mahia Blackmore and Matthias Walter from Germany. Mr Walter has been travelling the world planting peace trees, and he will give a talk about his project.

The event will finish with a shared meal, and everyone is invited to bring a plate.

Billy, who grew up Wiremu Te Kahika in Palmerston North and is now based in the West Coast town of Karamea, is well known to NZ music lovers. Of Ngati Kahungunu and Maniapoto descent, he is remembered for his guitar playing with the band Human Instinct in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

He describes his music as "ethnic fusion of rhythm, melody and harmony with rock, blues and funk influences". He has been billed alongside the likes of Joe Satriani, UB40 and Elvis Costello. -Billy TK Senior and guests will play at 3pm, February 27, at Whanganui Arts at the Centre. Entry by koha.