In a world first, The Great First Nations Song Book: A Night of Swing and Soul on 19 October will showcase the rich history of songmen and women through a reimagined, like-a-version, jazz-themed 13-piece orchestra.
The show will have everything from country to pop to ska to rock and roll by Sunshine Coast artist Adam James.
This concert-length incredibly unique performance features the beloved hits of Australia’s iconic First Nations musicians, reimagined with the electrifying flair of ’60s big band music by celebrated local Quandamooka singer-songwriter Adam James, aka The Quandamooka Crooner.
“This is a first of its kind musical event. Although First Nations songlines are 60,000+ years old, The Great First Nations Song Book concert is a celebration of First Nations song from the last 60 years,” Adam said.
“Australia’s very first pop star was the legendary Yorta Yorta singer, Jimmy Little. In the 1960s, a dapper young Jimmy Little rocketed to an international no.1 on the Top of The Pops with his hit single, Royal Telephone. The concert opens with this legendary song, and closes with Treaty by the incomparable Yothu Yindi,” he said.
In between is a musical journey underlined by swing and soul and covering First Nations music makers like Troy Cassar-Daley, Coloured Stone, Dan Sultan, Pirra, Ruby Hunter, Archie Roach and Busby Marou, among others. Between songs, Adam tells stories, with the whole experience truly memorable.
The music provides a unique glimpse into the heart of Adam’s creative journey as he brings the best of Blak Australian music to new audiences, new beats and new heights.
“It’s a celebration of heritage, harmony, and Dreamtime Swing,” Adam said.
Event details:
What: The Great First Nations Song Book: A Night of Swing and Soul
When: Saturday 19 October at 7.30pm
Tickets: rpac.com.au/what-s-on/all-events/the-great-nations-songbook/
Where: Redland Performing Arts Centre, 2-16 Middle Street, Cleveland
This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
