Ruu. and Chelle Tamika Team Up for “WORTH”

“WORTH”, an exciting new collaboration from African-Australian hip hop artist Ruu. and R&B act Chelle Tamika, is this year’s first release from Campbelltown Art Centre’s Conscious program. This professional development program first came to my attention when P.Smid released “WESSIDE” in 2022. It’s fabulous to hear it’s still supporting and elevating local artists.

“This song is about my experience growing up Black in South-West Sydney, being (and feeling like) the only Black person in my area and experiences on Black culture and how it has been perceived and taken advantage of as I continue to live life,” Ruu. explained. “I hope the song allows the African-Australian community to embrace their culture stronger, and brings more internal discussion and support for each other, as it is needed as the music scene in Australia continues to grow.”

If you like what he does, make sure you catch Ruu. at one of his gigs this month:

3 May 2024 – 4INTHECUT Release Party @ Burdekin Hotel, Gadigal Country/Darlinghurst
25 May 2024 – PULSE @ Botany View Hotel, Gadigal Country/Newtown

Photo credit: Jay Patel

Benjamin Trillado Wows Me With “Worth”

Melbourne singer-songwriter Benjamin Trillado recently released his brand new single “Worth,” and it’s the kind of song that demands a few minutes of your time.

Don’t just press play and go back to your day, or you might miss the beauty of this subtle song. It’s definitely a slow burner, but if you tune in to those lyrics and the gentle music that surrounds it, you’ll understand why I’m raving about this song. Those lyrics explore Benjamin’s need for acceptance as a queer person from the people around him and himself. It should resonate with anyone who’s struggled finding their place in the world.

“This song is about understanding your own self-value and accepting that you deserve a place in this world,” Benjamin explained. “As a queer person, I grew up struggling to come to terms with my sexuality and often resented myself for it. ‘Worth’ shares the struggles I faced in accepting myself and the empowerment that lies in embracing one’s identity. This song is a love letter to the LGBTQIA+ community and goes out to anyone who needs a reminder to love and accept themselves for who they truly are.”

This is Benjamin’s first release of the year, his follow-up to the 2019 tracks “Glue” and “First Kiss.” Hopefully it won’t be the last.

Melbourne might be in lockdown, but Benjamin won’t let that stop him playing for fans. Catch him on Instagram playing the following shows. Both virtual events start at 8 pm AEST.

30 July 2020 – Songwriters of Melbourne Live (@rsomelbourne)
31 July 2020 – Benjamin’s Kitchen (@benjamintrillado)

Image used with permission from This Much Talent