She will also sing Native Born, a song from Roach’s 30 year-old classic album, Charcoal Lane, alongside her friend, indie singer, Alice Skye, a Wergaia/Wemba Wemba woman from Western Victoria, also living in Melbourne.
The chance to raise her voice and have it heard, especially among peers doing the same, was something Kee’ahn’s ancestors were not granted. “My matriarchs were strong fighters who were denied their freedom on their own land – their voices flow through mine so I am honored and empowered to be able to create my music and have people listen,” she said.
“I am one of many First Nations creators and my goal is to amplify the many other voices in my community that are leaders, activists and system breakers.”
Archie Roach, who was inducted into the 2020 Aria Hall of Fame, was a strong inspiration for Kee’ahn.Credit:Jo O’Keefe
Kee’ahn says being among a wave of young, female Indigenous artists who are gaining traction, including Yorta Yorta musician and composer Allara (also performing on Tuesday), is “pretty special”, especially at a time when the live music industry generally remains under pandemic stress.
“Ruby Hunter paved the way for all of us; there’s a lot more that can be done in the music industry for women, but it’s empowering to see so many First Nations women come through the ranks and that there’s more coverage of us,” she said.
Though January 26 was a sombre day for her community, she said being among it at the Share the Spirit festival would enable sadness to be acknowledged, as well as shared.
