Last night at the 2018 Aria Awards, Dr G Yunupingu was announced as the Male Artist of the Year and his highly acclaimed album of 2018, Djarimirri (Child of the Rainbow), made ARIA history as the first Indigenous language album to debut at number one.
Dr G also took home the ARIAs for Best Independent Release, Best World Music Album, and Best Cover Art.
Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss said it was a fantastic acknowledgement of Dr Gs talent and legacy; he was a performer that captivated audiences, and took the Yolgnu Matha language and stories to the world.
As a young man from Galiwinku in north east Arnhem Land, Dr G had his musical beginnings as a member of the Saltwater Band before joining the internationally renowned Yothu Yindi band from Yirrkala. He went on to become an international artist in his own right, performing for leaders around the world. He also performed regularly on stages across Arnhem Land.
As stated by Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss
I was fortunate enough to see Dr G perform, and it is an experience that stays with you.
His albums are ones that I listen to on a regular basis.
His legacy will continue and the path he carved will remain for emerging Territory artists to follow.
