In a bid to continue the legacy of Australia's first Aboriginal pop star, Warner Music Australia has announced the Jimmy Little Grant, which will be used to support managers of Indigenous artists with the aim to improve opportunities for Indigenous artists and their managers within the music industry.
Dr James Oswal Little AO released his first album, Mysteries of Life, in 1957, when the Australian music industry was really only just beginning, let alone the Indigenous music community. The relationship between Jimmy Little and Australian audiences was a mutual love affair that lasted over five decades.
In the late 1990s Little was struck with kidney disease, though received a successful kidney transplant in 2004. His turmoils with health prompted the birth of the Jimmy Little Foundation - an organisation dedicated to delivering the message of healthy nutrition and lifestyles for Indigenous Australians.
Sadly, Jimmy Little passed away in early 2012, however over his lifetime he released a monumental 36 albums and 18 EPs. Warner Music Managing Director Tony Harlow said, "his loss has left behind a huge hole in both Indigenous and country music," and that, "it is appropriate for Warner Music to acknowledge the fact that Jimmy was always focused on 'giving back', and we are proud to collaborate with his family and foundation to provide a longstanding legacy that will reflect his work and contribute to ensure it continues."
More information about those benefiting from the new annual $10,000 grant will be forthcoming soon.
Visit the Jimmy Little Foundation here
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