Indigenous musician Liam Tunkin is on a mission to carry forward his father’s musical legacy by narrating a significant chapter of Australia’s past through his songs. Hailing from the remote APY lands of South Australia, Tunkin, a guitarist for the family band Ilkari Maru, is set to perform at the 21st Bush Bands Bash in Alice Springs.
Tunkin’s father, the band’s original singer, used music to shed light on the Maralinga nuclear tests that scarred the Australian landscape in the 1950s and 60s. These tests, authorized by the Australian government, left a legacy of radioactive contamination, disproportionately affecting Indigenous communities.
Through his music, Tunkin aims to ensure that the stories of the land and its people, including the painful repercussions of the nuclear tests, are not forgotten. His heartfelt lyrics serve as a poignant reminder of the historical injustices faced by Aboriginal communities.
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As Tunkin prepares to take the stage at the Bush Bands Bash, he sees this opportunity as a way to connect with his heritage, sharing his father’s songs with a wider audience. The event, expected to draw around 3,000 attendees, is not just a music festival but a platform for Indigenous artists to showcase their talent and narratives.
The Bush Bands Bash, now in its 21st year, is a vital component of a developmental initiative aimed at supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians in navigating the complexities of the music industry. Coordinator Zoe Curren emphasizes the importance of providing these artists with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in a challenging industry.
Remote musicians like Tunkin and his fellow performers receive coaching in various aspects of music production, from vocals and stagecraft to understanding contracts and social media promotion. This mentorship program plays a pivotal role in empowering Indigenous artists to break into the mainstream music scene.
One such artist benefitting from this support is Broome-based musician Tornina “Matalja” Torres, who shares her personal experiences and emotions through her music. As the first female artist to join the mainstream Bush Bands development program, Torres’s participation marks a significant step towards greater gender diversity in the music industry.
Torres’s music reflects not only her own journey of self-discovery and healing but also resonates with others facing similar challenges. She acknowledges the trailblazing efforts of past Indigenous artists who have paved the way for emerging talents like herself, creating a more inclusive space within the industry.
As the Bush Bands Bash gears up to kick off at the Telegraph Station, the stage is set for a celebration of Indigenous voices and stories. Through music, artists like Tunkin and Torres are not just performers but storytellers, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and resilience that resonates far beyond the festival grounds.
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