POWER 50 2025: Briggs (Bad Apples)

BACKGROUND CHECK:

Adam Briggs has spent his illustrious career in the local music industry, asserting himself as one of the most prominent and impactful musical figures and changemakers on the scene. A proud Yorta Yorta man, Briggs’ early releases in the world of hip-hop caught the attention of the wider industry, with his Bad Apples label arriving in 2015 to foster the careers of fellow artists whose technical ability and storytelling were paramount.

A co-founder of A.B. Original, a champion of First Nations talent, and the nascent frontman of the ferocious Big Noter, Briggs’ career also extends to the worlds of comedy, acting, and writing, with his versatile career, cultural leadership, and commitment to greater inclusivity and equity in the Australian music landscape making him a name to revere.

THE YEAR IN AUSTRALIAN MUSIC:

2025 has undeniably been a big year for Briggs and his myriad projects. While his Bad Apples label marked its tenth anniversary, fitting celebrations to the milestone took place with a roster of stellar acts around the country, and an impactful performance at the MCG for the AFL's Dreamtime At The ‘G game put his music on the radar of footy fans.

The continued rollout of his Big Noter project has resulted in a series of stellar, high-energy live shows throughout Australia, Europe, and supporting big international names, while an ARIA Award nomination and the release of a special 7” to commemorate the 35th anniversary of Archie Roach’s Took The Children Away also contributed to a mammoth year. Arguably, one of the biggest moments, however, was his appearance at the Productivity Commission in Canberra back in September, calling on the government to not allow data mining exemptions for big tech companies to train AI models.

A powerful figure in the music scene and a vital presence championing rights for all, there’s no denying Briggs has made the right people uncomfortable through his continued efforts for change.

THE MUSIC SPEAKS:

When Briggs delivered the line about AI: “It doesn’t know what a lounge room in Shepparton smells like,” it hit hard. Whether it’s the lyrics in his songs or the lyrics he uses to cut through bullshit, when Briggs talks, people listen. The eloquent arguments made by the CEOs at the AI inquiry couldn’t compare to when Briggs put the argument against AI in a way that hit Senators right between the eyes. 

He has a plain speaking humanity but is an orator with cut-through. But it’s also his power to play the industry his way and use it to champion others and create paths, with BARKAA and Kobie Dee dropping great new tunes this year. Ten years of Bad Apples is a milestone worth celebrating for someone who’s achieved so much yet feels like he’s just getting started.