MITCH TAMBO

MENTOR | music

Australian World Music Star and trailblazer in First Nations language music, Mitch Tambo isn’t shy when it comes to artistic innovation. From mixing the traditional sounds of a didgeridoo in with modern production, to covering the Icehouse classic “Great Southern Land” in his Gamilaraay tongue, Mitch incorporates his culture into music in a unique way.

Mitch’s journey in the arts not only reflects personal success but also embodies a commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of Indigenous creatives. He is a champion for the significance of authentic representation in the music industry. As an integral part of this year’s Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, Mitch serves as not only the music mentor, but also an ambassador for change, inclusion and diversity.

With his commitment to this scholarship program, Mitch underscored the fundamental role of storytelling within Indigenous culture. “Storytelling is a massive part of our culture,” he says. “It’s one of the main ways Aboriginal people have kept our culture alive."

He says he is excited about the opportunity to witness the talents showcased by up-and-coming Indigenous individuals and emphasised the importance of providing platforms for their voices to be heard.

Mitch’s support for the scholarship extends beyond endorsement. "I’ll be bringing to the table what I’ve learnt over the years I’ve been in the industry, my vision and how I’ve been able to highlight our culture in a contemporary setting,” he says. He aims to mentor and guide the music finalist, helping them navigate the industry while staying true to their cultural heritage.

Highlighting the significance of scholarships such as this for Indigenous creatives, Mitch remarked, "I think it’s so important to be able to create spaces that identify talent and nurture that talent. It’s more important when you look at the statistics and see how overrepresented Indigenous people are in some negative spaces. In particular, it’s a good opportunity for people in rural areas."

Mitch’s own artistic journey is deeply rooted in his cultural identity and passion for storytelling. "I found a massive deep-seated love for my culture at 15 and that’s what propelled me into this trajectory,” he says. His early immersion in traditional dance, stories, and lore laid the foundation for his musical career.

Throughout his career, Mitch has achieved significant milestones that highlight his impact on the music industry. 

"Playing to about 80,000 people alongside Brian May, Olivia Newton-John and John Farnham at the Fire Fight Australia Concert in 2020 was a highlight,” he says. “Along with collaborating with Icehouse at the T20 cricket world cup at the MCG, scoring 10 consecutive Number 1s on iTunes World Music Charts and having music placements all around the globe."

Mitch's music transcends borders and genres, resonating with audiences worldwide. When asked about his love for music, he highlighted, "the ability to allow someone to feel what they need to feel through your song”. Drawing inspiration from lived experiences and cultural heritage, his music serves as a powerful vehicle for emotional connection and empowerment.

Mitch stresses the importance of authenticity and self-expression when offering advice to aspiring musicians. 

"The best advice I could give to anyone is represent your authentic self and be true to who you are - not true to what the last viral video was." 

For Mitch, success in the music industry lies in staying true to one's unique identity and narrative, something he hopes to impart on not only the finalist of The Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, but to all Indigenous artists around the world.

WRITTEN BY JACK BAILEY