Singer Jessica Mauboy was inducted into the NIMA Hall of Fame at the ceremony, joining such esteemed artists as Archie Roach, Gurrumul and Yothu Yindi. The space is for First Nations artists who have had a longstanding and significant impact on the industry.
Jessica Mauboy was inducted into the music awards’ Hall of Fame in front of a home crowd in Darwin.Credit: Wolter Peeters
Mauboy, who grew up in Darwin, was emotional on stage in front of a cheering hometown crowd. She thanked her family and friends for their continued support, and acknowledged her childhood music teacher, who died in 2023.
“Judy Weepers, you were a lot more than just a choir teacher. You were the first to teach me about having music structure … you really did shape me,” Mauboy said.
“As I reflect on my career of 21 years being an artist in the music industry, and I can’t help but being taken back to the very beginning … each challenge taught me resilience, from humble beginnings in Darwin to the international stages.”
Malyangapa Barkindji rapper Barkaa won album of the year for her 2024 record BIG TIDDA. A previous NIMA artist of the year, she first rose to prominence in 2020 and has grown to be a mainstay in the Australian rap scene.
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The musician feigned disbelief when accepting the award, joking to the audience that the release was only an EP. But she expressed pride and gratitude towards the First Nations community for their support.
“I’m honoured to be nominated alongside my brothers and sisters … When one of us wins, we all win, in the words of Uncle Archie Roach. And I’m proud to be accepting this award,” Barkaa said.
This wasn’t the only mention of the late Gunditjmara and Bundjalung musician. Emma Donovan paid tribute to Roach with a powerful rendition of his song Wash My Soul In The River’s Flow.
“He’s been telling us these stories [since] a long time ago. Always to stay connected to country and to that water. And, more importantly, to the river,” Donovan said.
Gemma Grant travelled to Darwin and was hosted by Darwin Festival, with support by Tourism Australia through the Regional Arts Tourism Package.