Classic Q for Finn

Neil Finn, 52, earned a Classic Songwriter Award at the Q Awards 21 held in London at Grosvenor House on October 25. He was presented with the award by Scottish singer KT Tunstall, who told the audience that Finn was “a total pleasure to work with” and an “all-round dude.” Te-Awamutu-born Finn began his musical career more than 35 years ago, first finding fame when he joined his brother Tim’s band Split Enz in the 197s. He went on to form Crowded House, whose hits have included Don’t Dream It’s Over, Weather With You and Private Universe. After splitting in the late 9s, he went on to release solo work and collaborations with Tim before reforming the band. He said of the award: “I have always been besotted by music even as a boy. My method in trying to fashion the perfect song is a roundabout pathway, and how it works is no clearer to me now than back in the day.”