The First Nations Artists getting us through lockdown

Gurrumul Yunuping

“I love Gurrumul’s music. It’s so peaceful and relaxing and you can learn so much about his story through his music. His life journey is inspirational, he was born blind and was able to teach himself not only guitar but piano and drums.

My favourite song is from his self-titled album and it’s called Marwurrumburr”.

Kaiit

“Kaiit is a proud Gunditjmara and Torres Strait Islander on her mother’s side and Papua New Guinean on her father’s side.

She, like me, grew up listening to her parents’ old Pink Floyd vinyls so I already liked her when I read that! She is a force of nature bringing powerful vocal melodies and rap verses to her brand of Neo-Seoul / Jazz / Hip-Hop. Her music is reminiscent of Lauren Hill, Jill Scott and SZA. Her new single “Miss Shiney” is a total banger!”

– Jake, Youth Support Officer, Sydney

Thelma Plum

“Our program director at NASCA, Skye, actually introduced me to Thelma’s awesome music last year. I also got to see her live in January in Perth! I love her authentic lyrics, that she is so brutally honest about her life and that she is so proud of her culture.”

– Amy, WA and NT State Manager

Tasman Keith

“My favourite Aboriginal Artist is a rapper called Tasman Keith. He is a proud Gumbayngirr man from Bowraville in NSW. Coming from a town that has been historically associated with a notorious mission, Tasman’s storytelling shines truth on the ugliness of the past, and the experiences that Aboriginal young people face growing up in Australia. His music is in your face, he makes no apologies for saying it how it is. Tasman is quickly establishing himself as a powerful voice on the Australian hip hop scene, with songs like ‘Mission Famous’ and ‘move up’ making serious waves.”

– Harry, Youth Support Officer, Sydney

Electric Fields

“Electric Fields captured my heart from the first time I heard their music. The duo’s vibrant music lit up the space and captured my heart. I left their gig feeling so alive”

– Dom Green, Program Manager, Sydney

Jimmy Little

“Jimmy Little a Yorta Yorta man was a pioneer in the industry of country music and his biggest hit during the time, the country song “Royal Telephone,” was in 1963, the first number one song in Australia by an Aboriginal performer. Country music, and when I hear artists like Jimmy Little, I’m reminded of my home.”

– Tshinta, Youth Support Officer, Dubbo