BLAKLIST

BLAKLIST pays tribute to the First Nations hip-hop artists whose music starts conversations, inspires action, and evolves and elevates Australian music. You’ll find songs that protest, mourn, celebrate and honour—along with plenty that are simply having a great time. From A.B. Original, DOBBY, Miiesha and Barkaa to Baker Boy, Tasman Keith, JK-47 and The Kid LAROI—Australia’s biggest hip-hop export ever—these are the sounds of the streets, the communities and the people who hold 65,000 years of First Nations history in their heads and hearts. “I love the power that hip-hop gives me to tell my truth,” Filipino Aboriginal rapper and producer DOBBY tells Apple Music. “Our hip-hop is not just music. We make this music to educate and bring about change in this country.” Born from the streets and used to share stories by, for and about communities whose voices and lives were more often than not underrepresented and ignored, particularly in mainstream music, hip-hop has continued to evolve and expand into the biggest genre in the world. Still, at its roots lies that power to tell truths and amplify voices in a way unlike any other. Across Australia, First Nations hip-hop artists are carrying the torch, using rhymes to fight, reflect, educate and celebrate life and identity. Whether you’re a part of the First Nations community or not, these songs showcase the talent—and realness—of artists from all across the country, and we hope you discover and explore the versatility and virtuosity exemplified throughout. “I hope listeners learn from our truths,” says DOBBY. “And I hope they can act on it mindfully.” This playlist has been curated by Wiradjuri original Jaja Dare and the artwork has been created in collaboration with Gumbaynggirr artist Aretha Brown. Apple acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, culture and community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.