In case you missed it, it’s NAIDOC week, a week which celebrates the culture, history, and achievements of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. So it’s only fitting that Friday sees the release of a new Indigenous hip hop compilation dubbed Song Nation Vol 1.
The album was created by Desert Pea Media, who helped oversee the creation of these songs through their unique dialogue-driven songwriting workshops held in remote communities around the country. Through the development of great music, Desert Pea Media aims to be a catalyst for change.
The songs on Song Nation Vol 1 were recorded by the exciting groups Desert Pea Media’ unearthed. They include the Cairns Murri Crew, the band behind the album’s lead single “Built to Last.” The group features students from Cairns High School, who wrote the song is collaboration with Desert Pea Media facilitators.
Support Desert Pea Media’s vital work and do your ears a favour when Song Nation Vol 1 hits stores on Friday July 11.
While there’s a solid line-up of established hip-hop talent, it’s also a great opportunity to discover some fresh new talent including 21-year-old Adelaide rapper Allday, Sydney duo Jackie Onassis, and the exciting Crochet Crooks.
Nas is bringing his acclaimed Movement festival to Australia this April. He created the festival to look to the future of his beloved hip hop genre while celebrating its roots.
After its launch in Adelaide last year, the 
The line-up claims to bring together the cream of Aussie hip hop, and while there are some notable omissions it’s still quite impressive. Drapht ,Illy, The Funkoars, Phrase, Resin Dogs, Lowrider, Diafrix, and more will take to Brisbane’s Riverstage on October 15. If it goes off the way I think it should, perhaps Bliss N Eso and Hilltop Hoods will want to be involved next year!
Independent Sydney hip hop label