‘Song Nation Vol. 1’ is a compilation of original Hip Hop music and online videos celebrating the very much alive and vibrant Indigenous contemporary culture across regional and remote areas of Australia and Torres Straits Islands. Completely independent and unlike anything in the industry, Desert Pea Media (DPM) known for their unique dialogue-driven song writing workshop process, under the cultural supervision of Aunty Gail Mabo (Eddie Mabo’s daughter) have created one of the most exciting and culturally significant albums in recent times.

‘We’re hoping to demonstrate to young people that their voices are relevant and their stories important; that they have the capacity to shape their own future and that people are listening. We’ re hoping to demonstrate to communities that their young are proud of their cultural heritage and in their stories and voices is held the hope for Desert Pea Media is a not for profit organisation established in 2002 with the aim of identifying and breaking down social and cultural issues through collaborative storytelling, music, film and performance – empowering Indigenous young people through truth, hope and a mantra of positivity.

The Song Nation project was born from the collaboration between the two close friends Desert Pea Media and The Smugglers Of Light Foundation, then evolving into a partnership program including APRA, UN Ltd and a range of schools and community organisations from across the country. For over a decade, Desert Pea Media has delivered over 100 community projects in Australia and Internationally, engaging thousands of Indigenous young people and developing a strong grassroots following with over 700,000 views on their Youtube Channel and 70 music videos. The first single (out now) is Built To Last, a captivating Hip Hop beat layered by enchanting female vocals that connects with the powerful message of the song and will make you ‘dance to the rhythm of your heartbeat’.

Written as part of a collaborative process with DPM facilitators and young people from Cairns High School in Cairns (QLD) a.k.a Cairns Murri Crew the track pays homage to Gimuy Walabura Yidinji people and the many elders and community leaders who fought for Indigenous rights for decades.

‘I can tell ya bro – If you don’t know where you been… I can tell ya sis – If you missed out on your dreams… I can tell you that the spirit is strong, and if you know the song – Then you can sing along with me.’ – Built to Last the future of Indigenous Australia.’ – Toby Finlayson, Desert Pea Media Founder