Klub Koori

Overview

Overcoming systemic discrimination, both in the music industry and society more broadly, Indigenous hip hop artists are the vanguard of an exciting new era of Aussie hip hop. In the words of politically-conscious rapper Briggs, star of the ABC's Cleverman and Black Comedy:

They're growing up fast, they're growing up tough,

They're giving back everything they never got as a pup,

And if they want something, you're giving it up,

If they want something, you're giving it up.

It's tempting to say that Indigenous hip hop is undergoing a renaissance of late, but it wouldn't be entirely accurate — the scene has been strong for years, it's just that now it's finally starting to get the attention it deserves. One initiative responsible for this greater recognition is Klub Koori, a regular showcase of emerging and established Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians produced by Koori Radio.

This year's lineup includes hip hop producer/MC Jimblah, alongside Nooky, Lady Lash, Tasman Keith and first-ever performances by Young Black & Deadly [YBD] artists. Australian hip hop icons Izzy and MunkiMuk will be hosting the whole thing.

So, before they storm the stage on Thursday, July 7 at Carriageworks and with NAIDOC Week in full swing, we thought we'd introduce you to some Indigenous artists who are coming up fast and coming up tough. Read up.