Quandamooka singer-songwriter Adam James in The Great First Nations Songbook: A Night of Swing and Soul
This concert-length incredibly unique performance features the beloved hits of Australia's iconic First Nations musicians, reimagined with the electrifying flair of 60s big band music by celebrated local Quandamooka singer-songwriter Adam James, aka The Quandamooka Crooner.
"This is a first of its kind musical event. Although First Nations songlines are 60,000+ years old, The Great First Nations Song Book concert is a celebration of First Nations song from the last 60 years," said Adam.
"Australia's very first pop star was the legendary Yorta Yorta singer, Jimmy Little. In the 1960's a dapper young Jimmy Little rocketed to an international no.1 on the Top of The Pops with his hit single, Royal Telephone. The concert opens with this legendary song, and closes with Treaty by the incomparable Yothu Yindi," he said.
In between is a musical journey underlined by swing and soul and covering First Nations music makers like Troy Cassar-Daley, Coloured Stone, Dan Sultan, Pirra, Ruby Hunter, Archie Roach and Busby Marou, among others. Between songs, Adam tells stories, with the whole experience truly memorable.
The music provides a unique glimpse into the heart of Adam's creative journey as he brings the best of Blak Australian music to new audiences, new beats and new heights.
"It's a celebration of heritage, harmony, and Dreamtime Swing," said Adam.
The Great First Nations Song Book: A Night of Swing and Soul
Saturday October 19 at 7.30pm
Redland Performing Arts Centre, 2-16 Middle Street, Cleveland
Tickets HERE
This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
ABOUT ADAM JAMES:
Adam James is a recording artist who is hard to categorise – leaning into his indigenous heritage, country origins, and a deep love for blues, he has crafted a sound that is distinctly his own, and is known as The Quandamooka Crooner.
Famed in Australia for his notable debut in the country music scene, he has expanded his repertoire to embrace blues and jazz. His third studio album, Russian Blue, marked a significant evolution, showcasing him as a sophisticated storyteller and an indigenous artist. A singer, songwriter, and dynamic live performer, James has earned acclaim on both large festival stages and in intimate venues, captivating audiences with his melodious voice and effortless charm.
His musical journey began in Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) and rural New South Wales and Queensland, eventually leading him to prestigious award stages and the esteemed blues scene in Nashville.
In 2023, he was awarded a significant Arts QLD First Nations Commissioning Fund grant to reimagine a national jazz-themed 'Great First Nations Songbook.' This project has solidified his transition into a new musical realm, providing a perfect platform for his exceptional voice to shine.
James's first studio album, "Messages and Memories" (2007), paid homage to the Australian country sound and the landscapes of his northern NSW upbringing. Success followed with "The Country Singer" (2008) and "Children of the Sunrise" (2012), leading to performances at major festivals such as Woodford Folk Festival, The Dreaming Festival, and Tamworth Country Music Festival. In 2015, he was recognized as TSA's best Alt-Country-Blues artist.
He maintains a strong connection to the Australian community and serves as a Board Director for the non-profit charity Uncle Jimmy Thumbs Up, which promotes good nutrition and positive life choices through music, as well as with BlakDance and Sobah Beverages, furthering his commitment to his culture and community.
