FIRE Carriers

Wominjeka OLA Community, 

This is Alessio, one of the OLA Fire Carriers for 2023. For this newsletter I am excited to talk about indigenous music, in particular pop music. You may be familiar with some of the artists and the instruments they might play like the Yidaki.

There are lots of indigenous artists making great music. Artists like Thelma Plum, Baker Boy, Budjerah, Jessica Mauboy, Briggs, King Stingray, Yirmal and the well respected musicians like Yothu Yindi, Gurrumul and Archie Roach.

In indigenous music sometimes a Yidaki will be played. 

(sometimes known as a didgeridoo). The Yidaki is made of hollow tree trunks and wax for the mouthpiece so you can play it. The Yidaki was made over thousands of years ago and is now known around the world.

If you’re looking for an indigenous artist to listen to, I recommend listening to one of my favourite artists, Baker Boy. 

Baker Boy sings in English and in his native Aboriginal language called Yolngu Matha, which they speak in the Northern Territory in Arnhem Land.

Baker Boy is well known for his music and dancing.

Last year at the ARIA awards, Baker Boy won a total of 3 awards. For the best album (Gela), best artist award and the best hip-hop release award.

Baker Boy was named Young Australian of the year in 2019. He was recognised for being a multi-talented and multi-lingual Indigenous artist. He likes to use his talent to inspire young people in remote Indigenous communities and encourage them to embrace their culture and promote their culture.

So next time you're looking for some positive upbeat music to listen to and have a dance, try some songs from my favourite artist, Baker Boy!

Alessio P

2023 Fire Carrier