BIGSOUND 2019 Artist Focus: Deline Briscoe

Give us a short description of your music: You can expect a dynamic vocal delivery that interweaves Wungkabadi (Yalanji song) with jazz, roots, hip hop, folk and soul infusions.

Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND? I always enjoy the Electric Fields duo and would love to see some of the next gen Blak artists such as DRMNGNOW and our First Nations brothers from Kanata, Snotty Nose Rez Kids. 

Why should people come and see you among the many amazing bands at BIGSOUND? The Wawu journey is nourishing for the soul and I tour with a truly unique combination of musos – Airileke (master Pacific percussionist/drummer), Stephen Maxwell (Jamaican jazz pianist) three male backing vocalists from Papua New Guinea.

What music trends do you think are dominating right now, and do you have any predictions for the coming year? I see that the truth is really starting to be the popular theme of music right now. I predict that things will amp up with the truth-telling messaging until we see some significant changes in our respective societies and in our world.

In your career to date, what have been the key watershed moments? In 2008, the Black Arm Band show Dirtsong changed the direction of my career, as an ensemble singer, recording collaborator and theatre composer. In 2012, I worked on Iblijerri Theatre's Tanderrum, reviving and preserving the Kulin Nations' languages, stories and songs. In 2018, I recorded my solo album Wawu with hip hop/rootz co-producer Airileke (Sorong Samarai).

What industry lessons would you like to take away from the BIGSOUND conference? I’m looking forward to being part of the panel discussion, Re-awakening Voices: Music’s Role In The Revitalisation Of Indigenous Languages – to learn the processes and perspectives of other mob is always a gift we share with each other. I also want to gain more knowledge on the business of publishing and distribution of music overseas.

What do you identify as the most pressing issue impacting the Australian music industry at present? Equality for female artists headlining festival and venue bills – especially focusing on support for working mums in the music industry. The next thing would be a more diverse demographic of Bama (First Nations) women on the music scene but more specifically in event production roles.

What is the best bit of advice you've been given to prepare for your time at BIGSOUND? Bring your best show and make genuine connections with people. Follow up contact with mob that show an interest in your music.

When and where is your BIGSOUND showcase? 3 Sep, Home: Official BIGSOUND Welcome Party, The Valley Drive In, 12.30pm; 3 Sep, Empire Hotel, 10pm; 4 Sep, Black Bear Lodge, 8.20pm.