This September, Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley will once again come alive as the BIGSOUND conference and showcase returns from the 3rd to the 6th. Renowned as the southern hemisphere’s largest music industry event, this year’s BIGSOUND promises to highlight several inspiring Indigenous thinkers, artists, and creatives. BIGSOUND 2024: Celebrating Indigenous Voices and Innovation in Music
Honouring Tradition and Innovation
One of the key highlights is Garrwa and Butchulla songman Fred Leone, who will deliver a keynote address on the importance of honoring his role as a custodian of the traditional songs of the Butchulla tribe and how it intersects with his contemporary music career.
The panel discussion “Artist vs Advocacy,” featuring musician Miss Kaninna and Ali Tomoana, will explore the intersection of musicianship and the inherently political nature of their voices.
Goolwal Goolwal: Amplifying Indigenous Voices
BIGSOUND is thrilled to host its First Nations curated and led program, Goolwal Goolwal, dedicated to empowering and amplifying Indigenous voices. This program, nestled within the epicentre of Fortitude Valley, promises a rich array of activities, sessions, and events.
One of the standout features is the Goolwal Garden (The Sound Garden), BIGSOUND’s First Nations House. This space will host thought-provoking panels, electrifying showcase performances, and exclusive events. The Goolwal Garden offers a vibrant community hub downstairs with music and rhythms, while upstairs provides a sanctuary for relaxation, workshops, and captivating art displays. Entry to the Goolwal Garden is free until 5:30 pm daily, with ticketed showcases and events extending into the night.
Panels and Showcases
While the full program for Goolwal Goolwal is yet to be released, several highlights have already been announced. These include:
- Self-Determination: Securing First Nations Music For The Future with Kev Starkey
- Yarning Strong: Hear about the lived experiences of First Nations music workers within the industry
- Agents of Change: Discussing the evolving landscape of artist management
The artist showcase calendar is filled with incredibly talented First Nations artists, from Immy Owusu to Same Blood, aka J-MILLA x Yung Milla.
Elders in Residence
BIGSOUND ensures a strong presence of First Nations leadership throughout the event’s planning and execution. Elders in Residence, Uncle Kevin Starkey (Nurrunga/Adnyamathanha and Saibai TSI) and Toni Janke (Wuthathi, Yadighana and Meriam), play a crucial role in this year’s event.
“It’s so exciting to be part of the Goolwal Goolwal program. The strong presence of First Nations artists and arts workers from not only Queensland but right across the country is a testament to the fact that First Nations culture is loud and proud,” said Ms. Janke. “Music is part of our DNA, and we want to showcase First Nations music to the broader community and the world as the oldest surviving culture on the planet.”
Government Support
BIGSOUND is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, ensuring a robust platform for celebrating and promoting Indigenous culture and music.
This year’s BIGSOUND, with its emphasis on Indigenous innovation and tradition, promises to be an unmissable event for anyone passionate about the music industry and cultural heritage.
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