She may have lost the Australian Idol crown to Damien Leith, but there was no second prize for Jessica Mauboy last night. The teen sensation was named Artist of the Year at the Deadly Awards.
The Deadlys celebrate the achievements of indigenous Australians in music, sport, entertainment, and the community.
“Being part indigenous, it does mean a lot,” said Jess, whose mother is Aboriginal.
“I see the youth having difficulties knowing what they want to do and I really want to be a role model.”
It’s been a big week for the 18-year-old from Darwin, who was also just named as the newest Young Diva. She replaces Ricki-Lee Coulter in the Idol supergroup, which also features Kate DeAraugo, Paulini Curuenavuli, and Emily Williams.
Entertainer Jimmy Little was honoured with the lifetime achievement award for his music and charity work for improved indigenous health.
Kev Carmody’s Cannot Buy My Soul was named album of the year, while Queensland’s Black Image took home the band of the year award.
Troy Casser-Daley’s “Going Back Home” won the song of the year, recognising the most-performed indigenous song in 2007.
Image source: Jeaneeem @ Flickr.com