The First Nations creators were back for the second day of the Screen Australia and Instagram program at Meta HQ in Sydney on Wednesday.
The creatives soaked up all the training, knowledge and mentoring on offer, and Mediaweek was given exclusive access.
Rapper, drummer, composer, and producer DOBBY kicked off the day by joining the creators at Meta HQ to share his career and artistry journey.
Proudly identifying as a Filipino and Murrawarri musician, his roots run deep in the Aboriginal lands from Brewarrina and Weilmoringle in New South Wales.
His music has taken him around the world, from Germany to the UK, the USA to the Netherlands.
DOBBY has performed at some of the biggest festivals across the country, including Bluesfest and Boomerang Festival (NSW), Port Fairy Folk Festival (VIC), PARRTJIMA Festival (NT), and OzAsia Festival (SA), as well as the iconic Sydney Opera House.
He began playing the piano as a child, but it wasn’t until high school that he discovered his love for the drums.
“I remember one time there was an assembly, and there was this girl; she was playing the drums for the showcase, and I was the one that was right in front of the drum kit, and I remember just sitting there like, ‘Oh my God, this is what I want to do.’”
DOBBY also spoke about working on his debut album, Warrangu; River Story, which took seven years to create. He shared his insights on strategy and the content generated to promote the release.
In addition to his already impressive list of accomplishments, 2022 brought yet another accolade for DOBBY. He was awarded the NIMA Archie Roach Foundation Award, which recognises emerging First Nations artists who show exceptional talent and promise in their chosen field. This award is a testament to DOBBY’s dedication and passion for his craft.
His unique style, powerful lyrics, and dynamic performances have captivated audiences worldwide, and his influence is only continuing to grow as DOBBY continues to inspire and push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of music.
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