4ESydney Conference Sets Speakers Line-up With Annabelle Herd, MC Trey and More

ARIA and PPCA CEO Annabelle Herd, hip-hop veteran MC Trey and JK-47, the Minjungbal/Gudjinburra artist and advocate from the Bundjalung community who nabbed triple j’s Unearthed Artist of the Year award in 2020, are among the speakers confirmed for next month’s 4ESydney Conference.

Also joining the line-up is Torres Strait Islander journalist and broadcaster Rhianna Patrick; NOOKY, a Yuin, Thunghutti rapper and “Blak Out” host on triple j; U.S.-based artist, activist and Triple J’s first “Hip Hop” show host Maya Jupiter; and RAYGUN, the Sydney researcher, doctor and top ranked female breaker (real name: Rachael Gunn) who is aiming to make history at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The gathering of artists, industry professionals, and enthusiasts is set for Nov. 23 and 24 at The Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre, and is curated as a celebration of 50 years of hip-hop.

The program culminates with a community music festival in Blacktown’s Warrick Lane Precinct and Main Street the following day, Nov. 5.

The event, organisers say, will explore into the culture’s significant influence across society, with a blend of reflection and vision, addressing “the consequences of erasing history,” the evolutionary trajectory of hip-hop, paying tribute to five generations of artists and industry pioneers who have shaped the culture, and more.

The 4Elements HipHop Project or 4E utilises hip hop and music culture to foster artistic careers and generate community harmony, engagement and skills development.

Its mission, to smash stereotypes through building positive identity and self-esteem; creating a platform and audience for real voices to be heard; and establishing innovative pathways to education, training and employment.

The festival and conference, explain organisers, will serve as a canvas to explore the profound influence of hip-hop on youth, activism, social justice, mental health, and contemporary life.

Read more at 4ESydney.