Cornerstone Roots are a roots/reggae outfit from Raglan / Whāingaroa in Aotearoa / New Zealand, active since 2001.
Founded by vocalist/guitarist Brian Ruawai and bassist Naomi Tuao (also life partners), the band built their sound around reggae, dub, ska, and conscious lyricism — mixing in elements of Māori and Samoan cultural identity.
Their early years saw them release the One Fine Day EP, followed by their full-length debut Soul Revolution, which they toured around New Zealand (including a culminating show supporting Sly & Robbie at Wellington Town Hall). They’ve since put out albums like Free Yourself and Future Is Now, and EPs including Forward Movement and Free Man.
Over the years, Cornerstone Roots have shared the stage with reggae legends like Burning Spear, Toots & the Maytals, Sly & Robbie, Jimmy Cliff, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Mad Professor, and The Original Wailers.
Today, they remain a fixture in the New Zealand roots/reggae scene — known for their authentic sound, cultural grounding, and passionate live performances.