Real name: Anthony Rayner

Nickname: "The Proff"

Born: 19th November, 1952

Hometown: Lower Hutt

Eddie Rayner is one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed musical artists. An award winning musician, producer, and composer, he is a former member of the hugely successful local bands Space Waltz and Split Enz. Rayner has since forged a successful solo career, collaborating with Sir Paul McCartney, Crowded House and many of New Zealand’s top artists along the way. He arranged and produced the two phenomenally popular ENZSO albums, working with Neil and Tim Finn, Dave Dobbyn, Annie Crummer, Sam Hunt, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, the NZSO and TOWER New Zealand Youth Choir.

Rayner continues his work as an artist and composer and has most recently been producing records for the local and international markets, including Margaret Urlich and The Exponents. He has also adjudicated on the APRA Silver Scroll and RIANZ judging panels and has contributed to the television series Showcase and Get Your Act Together.

In his role as Musical Director on the NZ Idol series, Rayner uses his considerable experience to organise the musical arrangements for every song performed on NZ IDOL.

• Unofficial fansite
• Interview with Eddie
• More bio information