Several Aboriginal organisations have come together to present a series of online events aimed at supporting First Nations artists.
'Insta Blakout' will kick off today with a live streaming concert event, with the series hoping to bolster businesses through the current economic and health crisis impacting the global community.
Yorta Yorta man, Cormach Evans - CEO & Founder of , who has partnered with Ngamai Meet Ups, Barpirdhila, and Strong Brother Strong Sister to bring the series together – told NITV News that this is a crucial time for community to support one another.
"This event is just the start of a movement and something bigger to come in support of community. '(Insta Blakout'), in particular, we thought to be really good idea to have a really nice and beautiful day to come together and heal and have a bit of a time out from all the chaos that's going on,” he said.
Mr Evans says that it's a way to also support our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
"They’ve obviously lost quite a lot and quickly, so it’s important for us to try and support them financially with a gig and also bring some people to their social pages so they can hopefully get some dollars in to their bank accounts whether that is through future gigs or selling some merchandise."
The live stream event will feature 15-20 minute sets from each artist with the lineup featuring artists such as The Merindas, Alice Skye, Birdz and Benny Walker.
Yorta Yorta musician, Mr Walker, who will be playing several new songs from his upcoming album to be released in June, sees the event as a crucial way to connect at this challenging time.
"The urge to connect with people has never been stronger. I’ve always felt that I can convey my feelings and thoughts best through my music and some of my new songs that I’ll be performing, have taken on a new meaning for me. I think we’re all gaining more of an appreciation for one another and the arts in general,” Mr Walker told NITV News.
Yorta Yorta musician Benny Walker is part of the line up of Instagram live concert event 'Insta Blakout' launching today. Source: Facebook
I think we’re all gaining more of an appreciation for one another and the arts in general
Every artist that is playing today will be paid for their time, which Mr Evans says is vital.
"I think everyone should get paid for what they do and especially at this stage and First Nations artist. Now is the time that we really need to get behind our businesses and entrepreneurs”
'Insta Blakout' kicks off at 3pm today on Instagram. for more information and each individual artists page to catch their set.
