News August 29, 2018

Sydney Opera House & Airbnb team up for First Nations concert series: “new songmen and songwomen who still walk in ancient footprints”

The Sydney Opera House and Airbnb today announced a new series of intimate performances from a diverse range of First Nations artists.

Airbnb Concerts take place in the Utzon Room, the only Opera House venue designed entirely by its architect, Jørn Utzon.

The shows are curated by Rhoda Roberts AO, the Opera House’s head of First Nations programming.

Roberts says, “First Nations music can now be heard across all genres and around the world.

“There is a new attitude and urgency to the lyrics and rhythm, providing opportunities for deep listening, visiting forgotten stories and sharing pride in country and black identity.

“From native tongues to dance music, this series of concerts showcases the music of the next generation.

“I’m loving the shift in these new songmen and songwomen who still walk in ancient footprints and continue to unleash ideas, tell of personal triumphs and the obstacles they have faced.

“Welcome to the 21st century of songlines.”

Sam McDonagh, Australia and New Zealand country manager at Airbnb explains: “Earlier this year we introduced Airbnb Concerts as a passion category of experiences available to book on the platform.

“Music brings people together and is the language that bridges cultures, borders, and generations.

“There isn’t a more iconic Australian venue than the Sydney Opera House, and this intimate Concert Series will give Airbnb guests, both locals and travellers, the opportunity to engage with our music scene in a personal and authentic way.”

Wednesday, September 19:

Drummer, spoken word and hip hop artist DOBBY who celebrates his Indigenous and Filipino ancestry.

Tasman Keith, son of Indigenous hip hop pioneer Wire MC, whose fusion hip hop, R&B and new-wave funk was seen on his chart hit My Pelopolees earlier this year.

MC Hau Latukefu, rapper, taste-maker and triple j host, who is MC-ing the night.

Wednesday, December 12:

Radical Son, whose lyrics covering hopelessness to healing accentuated by his Kamilaroi nation and Tonga heritage, will be accompanied by pianist Callum Macdonald.