BARKAA: A Historic Win for Aboriginal Representation in Music
Last week, BARKAA made headlines by becoming the first Aboriginal woman to win the ARIA Award for Best Hip Hop/Rap Release, thanks to her powerful EP, Big Tidda. This monumental achievement not only highlights her talent but also marks a significant moment in the Australian music landscape, showcasing the importance of representation in the industry. In addition to her ARIA win, BARKAA also secured the inaugural NSW First Nations Music Prize, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer for Indigenous artists.
Speed: Breaking Barriers in Hardcore Music
In a parallel narrative, the band Speed has also made waves in the Australian music scene. Just a year after their formation, they achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Australian hardcore act to perform at Coachella in April. Their presence at such a prestigious festival underscores their rapid rise to prominence. Recently, they attended the ARIA Awards as nominees for Best Australian Live Act, further solidifying their place in the mainstream music arena.
Tackling Tough Topics Through Music
Speed’s music is characterized by its raw authenticity and willingness to address difficult subjects. Their 2020 single, "A Dumb Dog Gets Flogged," served as a critical response to the federal government’s handling of the Black Summer bushfires, reflecting the band’s commitment to social commentary. Their upcoming track, "Only Foes," features the poignant lyric, “F— feeling foreign in my own home,” which resonates deeply with lead vocalist Siow’s experiences as a first-generation Asian-Australian. This ability to weave personal narratives into their music is a hallmark of their artistry.
The Value of Community and Authenticity
Clayton, a member of Speed, attributes the band’s success to their emphasis on community and authenticity. He notes that these values have become increasingly important in today’s society, where many people seek genuine connections. “We really value authenticity more than ever right now,” Clayton explains. This sentiment resonates with young audiences, who are eager to find their place within music scenes that reflect their realities.
The ARIA Awards: A Platform for Change
At the recent ARIA Awards, themes of community and authenticity emerged prominently on the red carpet. Artists voiced their opinions on what the music industry needs to thrive, emphasizing the importance of government investment, more music festivals, and active support for local acts. Graham, another artist, pointed out that the streaming revolution has led to an influx of American music, making it crucial to support local musicians in gaining visibility.
Strengthening the Local Music Ecosystem
Annabelle Herd, the ARIA chief executive, highlighted the significance of the awards in opening doors for new audiences and opportunities. Her leadership in the industry association’s partnership with Spotify aims to bolster the local music ecosystem, making NSW a vital hub for music in Australia and beyond. The NSW Music Prize, part of the state government’s 10-year Contemporary Music Strategy, seeks to fortify the local music industry against increasing competition from international artists.
Future Plans for Speed
As for how Speed plans to utilize their prize money, Clayton remained somewhat reserved. The band is currently on tour, which has limited their discussions about the funds. However, he emphasized that any decision would focus on benefiting the entire hardcore scene. “We see winning this award as a recognition of hardcore as a genre in Australia right now,” he stated, indicating their commitment to fostering the next generation of artists in the genre.
The Impact of Local Music
The recent achievements of BARKAA and Speed underscore a broader movement within the Australian music industry, where authenticity and community are becoming increasingly valued. As artists continue to break barriers and address pressing social issues, the landscape of Australian music is evolving, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative future.
