Tim Finn (Brian Timothy Finn; born 25 June 1952) is a New Zealand singer‑songwriter and performer best known as a driving creative presence in the Australasian music scene. He first came to public attention through the art‑rock/new wave group Split Enz and later pursued a solo career while maintaining frequent collaborations with his younger brother, fellow musician Neil Finn. Finn has also been associated with the band Crowded House and has recorded and toured under the joint name the Finn Brothers.

Musical career and major collaborations

Finn helped establish Split Enz in the early 1970s and was one of the principal songwriters and frontmen during the band's formative years. After the group disbanded, he developed a parallel solo career that showcased a range of styles from pop and rock to more introspective singer‑songwriter material. Apart from solo work, Finn's career has been marked by recurring collaborations: he has worked with his brother in studio and on stage, joined forces with other prominent New Zealand and Australian musicians, and at times participated in projects led by or connected to Crowded House.

Style, themes and performance

Tim Finn's music blends melodic pop sensibilities with theatrical and artful touches inherited from his Split Enz background. His songwriting often focuses on personal reflection, relationships and storytelling, while his live performances can combine intimate acoustic sets with more elaborate band arrangements. Over decades he has adapted to changing musical trends while retaining a distinct lyrical voice and a flair for melodic hooks.

Selected associations and recordings

  • Co‑founder and songwriter of Split Enz, the band that brought him initial prominence.
  • Solo albums and tours spanning multiple decades, demonstrating a mix of pop, rock and folk influences.
  • Recorded collaborations with his brother as the Finn Brothers; joint projects highlighted the brothers' complementary songwriting.
  • Periods of involvement with or contributions to the work of Crowded House and other artists from Australasia and beyond.

Legacy and recognition

Tim Finn is regarded as one of New Zealand's influential contemporary songwriters. His work with Split Enz helped shape the region's pop and alternative music scenes, and his collaborations with his brother Neil have been widely celebrated by fans and critics alike. Finn has received national and international honors for his contributions to music and culture, and his songs continue to be performed, recorded and covered by other artists.

For an overview of his life and career, see authoritative biography sources and dedicated music archives, including profiles of Tim Finn, information about Neil Finn, and material on Crowded House.