Side Hustle Profile
MEET THE BAND
Since debuting in May 2020, Side Hustle has built a loyal following on the pub and function circuit — known for a wide-ranging set list spanning rock, pop, funk and well-loved covers from the '70s through to today.
The band came together when frontman Steve Cox reconnected with a guitarist colleague in 2019, sharing a vision to build one of the best covers bands around. After months of searching for the right people, rehearsals began in early 2020 under the name Side Hustle — and the line-up has been evolving and delivering ever since.
What sets Side Hustle apart is the depth of experience on stage. The current line-up brings together musicians with backgrounds spanning international touring, session work, television and collaborations with some of the biggest names in music — from members who've shared stages and studios with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin and the NZSO, to a keyboardist who cut his teeth in a touring original band in Europe before emigrating from Latvia, to a drummer with deep roots in New Zealand's music scene and connections across some of the country's best-known acts. Rounding out the group is a guitarist who also happens to be an award-winning film director and cinematographer, bringing a professional eye to the band's staging, sound and visual production.
Despite the pedigree, Side Hustle's focus has always been the same: connecting with the crowd, reading the room, and delivering a set that gets people up and dancing. Whether it's a pub gig, a private function, or a big night out at a venue anywhere in the country, Side Hustle brings energy, versatility and genuine musicianship to every show.
The Line-up
FIVE PLAYER, ONE SHOW
STEVE COX
Years In Band: Six +
Position: Founder, Lead Singer & Manager
Steve began playing bass at 14 and eventually jamming with local musicians & bands, before heading to Australia from 1981 – 1994.
On returning to NZ in 1994, Steve undertook vocal training and began singing, forming his own cover band “Velocity” and performing at private functions and local venues. The band finished in 2000.
After a long hiatus, (built a business and raised a family) Steve was approached to perform in an event in 2018. This opportunity re-ignited Steve’s passion for music and performance, and searching for opportunities to continue - the genesis of Side Hustle.
MIGUEL ROPATA
Years In Band: One +
Position: Drummer, occasional vocal & bv's
Miguel has spent a lifetime in playing drums for a variety of well- known bands and includes connections and friendships with some of NZ’s best musicians like Dave Dobbyn, Morrie Watene, and has a cousin playing bass for Katchafire.
Miguel has drummed for Auckland bands Moon Alley and Velvet Sky, known by and played regularly a number of well-known Auckland music venues. He connected with and played with Gary, our keyboard player some years ago, when Gary had launched and
successfully run the British Tribute Show “British Invasion”.
Once connection was made with Steve and the Side Hustle Band, he saw the potential and is very excited about SHB’s future, committing to it absolutely and is a highly valued, dedicated and capable member of the band. Miguel (Mig’s - otherwise known by his SHB Nickname - Animal..think Muppet’s..) also holds a key role as 2IC in the bands management and operations.
ARVIDS KEINIS
Position: Keyboard Player
Years In Band: One Month +
Arvids Keinis is a versatile musician with a background spanning classical, rock, jazz, pop and contemporary music. Classically trained as an opera singer, he holds a Master’s degree in Music and has performed professionally with the Latvian National Opera and the Latvian National Guard Orchestra, including its rock and jazz combo.
Alongside performing as a vocalist, pianist and keyboardist, Arvids has experience in music production, composition and arranging, including creating original music and soundtracks for advertising and media.
He has also worked extensively in music education and music direction, teaching voice, piano and music theory, and leading choirs and bands.
Now based in Auckland, Arvids brings together years of professional experience with a genuine passion for live music and connecting with audiences.
PETER SIMPSON
Position: Guitarist, sound / lighting / audio visual / media / filming & production
Years In Band: Six Months +
From Gilmour to Page, Slash to Hetfield&Hammet. Just a few of the incredible guitarists that inspired me long ago ask my mate to have a go on his shiny cherry red guitar. Thirty years and thousands of hours of playing later I still get inspired when I hear Gilmour’s note choice or Hetfield’s crushing right hand. The joy of playing those songs on stage along with great guys like the lads from Side Hustle remains undimmed.
Peter is a World acclaimed (with a bunch of awards) as a film Director & Cinematographer. He is an Academic in his field who lectures at University of Auckland in media and screen production.
He has a history in live sound and staging large scale shows (worked at the Aotea Centre, Town Hall and Civic for a number of years. Peter’s passion, experience and skills helps take Side Hustle “up next level” on shows and show preparations.
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ALBI COLLIER
Position: Bass, guitar, keys, drums and vocals
Years In Band: One +
Albi had a connection with Side Hustle when it was first forming in 2019, he kept in occasional touch with Steve and saw Side Hustle in action (impressed) at events over the years.
As a first‑call session pro, Albi features on bass, guitar, drums, and occasional lead vocals for Side Hustle. His career spans TV‑featured singles, international award nominations, and
collaborations with artists ranging from the NZSO to John Rowles — delivering depth, experience, and total reliability every time he hits the stage. Now becoming involved with Side Hustle, he is a potent, positive addition to Side Hustle.
