Bonus Episode: BARKAA

I can defiantly say that you have never come across an artist like BARKAA before. She’s a Malyangapa, Barkindji woman based in Sydney, Australia who is using rap to tell the stories, the truths, and the issues impacting First Nations people. But part of representing a group is being able to also tell your own story, which is something BARKAA does in a fierce manner that’s continuously unflinching. At a young age, she found herself addicted to drugs and alcohol, leading to several stints in juvie and prison (where she also gave birth to her third child). Music provided solace, a means to tell her story, and it was through music that she climbed out of this abyss to release music that’s gone on to win the hearts of critics and fans alike. In a few short years, BARKAA has gone on to perform at iconic venues including the Sydney Opera House, Enmore Theatre and the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne AND her music is currently being used throughout schools in Australia as part of the curriculum in educating students on racism and the plights of indigenous people.

How did all this come to be? Well to find out you’ll have to hear today’s bonus podcast. It was such a privilege to chat with BARKAA about her story, she’s tenacious and righteous towards her craft, in addition to being strikingly candid, funny, and heartwarming towards anyone who takes the time to listen. I love when I get to say this, but yeah; say hello to your new favourite artist.

Also, after you hear the episode, be sure to check out BARKAA’s track Blak Matriarchy on the official New Exchange Playlist. Also, follow BARKAA on Spotify, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Ezra Furman

Samm Henshaw