We’re pleased to add some new music to our Always Was, Always Will Be playlist — a collection of music from First Nations artists curated by Yorta Yorta/Bangerang woman and Acclaim staff writer Taneshia Atkinson. The ongoing playlist aims to platform storytelling that highlights the creativity of First Nations people, the power of community and the impacts of colonial violence — whilst reclaiming space and paying homage to the very first storytellers. From newcomers to the music scene, debut tracks and timeless melodies, be sure to follow the playlist for regular updates of some of the best tracks traversing First Nations voices.
To get you started, we’ve pulled a few standout tracks for some more insight into a few highlights from the newest update of Always Was, Always Will Be:
Avalanche – JK-47, Jay Orient featuring. Tasman Keith
Bundjalung MC JK-47 links up with Bowraville rapper Tasman Keith in a long-awaited pairing. With Jay Orient on the production, the track mimics an avalanche with the messaging burying everything that stood in their way. The bars in this track deliver a powerful onslaught enhanced by a quick switch in the second half, transporting the spotlight to Tasman. This track is fire. Make sure you check out the film clip too. We can’t wait to hear what’s in store on JK-47’s upcoming album.
Water Streets – Pirate Life
Water Streets is a collective of hip-hop artists hailing from the north (Far North Queensland) with something to say. The track opens with an illusory impact like you are listening underwater navigating the water streets yourself. It’s a smooth track that cascades into an infectious chorus with clever bars, kept afloat by a steady drum loop. The talent within this group is boundless.
MissGenius – Bme Chick
MissGenius pays homage to her hometown Broome in the Kimberley’s with her latest track Bme Chick sharing, “I wanted to write something special for the women and girls in Broome. This one is dedicated to all you funny, beautiful, smart, money making Bme Chicks”. The track showcases the timeless elements of R&B with a catchy chorus. MissGenius needs to be on your radar. Big things to come.
Inkabee, Flewnt – We Dat Good
The ultimate duo, Flewnt and his son Inkabee shine together on this track, with the intensity increasing after each verse. The song opens with the eerie plucking of a bass guitar simultaneously rousing and tranquilising. Every line they spit is packed with command and an undertow of humour, as Flewnt guides Inkabee to near-Timbaland-velocity. You won’t find a better flow of adlibs.
J-MILLA – On My Soul
J-MILLA returns with a powerful track that generously shares a snippet of his early life, adding another layer of depth to his catalogue. The isolation of his lyrics with a mesmerising slow build of cadence early in the track delivers his message with conviction. J-MILLA tells us another album is in the works with a promise of a combination of raw tracks and club bangers. We can’t wait to see what’s next for the Adelaide-based MC. Read our feature with him here.
Keep it locked to Acclaim, and follow the playlist for ongoing updates.