Jacob Ridgeway's debut song was never going to be a flash in the pan pop tune. It was going to say something. And say something it will when it is released during NAIDOC Week.
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The experienced performer and University of Newcastle music student, who is a proud Worimi and Gamilaroi man, delves into the tough topic of the Stolen Generation in a modern song that explores the "hurt to an ancient people".
Ridgeway said the song, titled Bullyman, explored the "false sense of security" Indigenous families were given by government officials, or "bullymen" as they were referred to, when children were separated from their homes.
"Originally I wrote the song when I was living in Brisbane studying at the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts. It was almost a reaction piece. We were studying the depiction of Aboriginal people in media and it got me thinking," he said.
"I'd heard so many songs about the Stolen Generation but I'd never heard something from the white perspective. I put myself in the position of Kenneth Branagh's character in Rabbit Proof Fence.
"When he was walking along checking everyone's skin tones in that movie it really got me thinking. Once he picked who he wanted, there was a real false sense of security he gave to everyone that they would be okay."
The track was co-written with Kevin Bennett during the 2017 DAG Sheep Station Writers Retreat.
Ridgeway said Bullyman's gloomy lyrics was inspired by one of the female elders in his community and her personal experiences through the Stolen Generation.
"This story is character driven from transitional moments in her life from small child, young woman to a mother herself all whilst being fed lies and a false sense of security from the Bullyman," he said.
"As the story progresses with her exposure to the world and education, she realises the protection that she was told she had was never real."
The track opens with a didgeridoo and toy piano that builds with sweet choral harmonies and traditional percussive elements such as clapsticks, Torres Strait Islander shakers and drums.
Ridgeway's solemn yet soulful vocals are accompanied by a chamber choir. He said all these elements gave "levels to the song".
"It's really exciting and nerve-wracking," Ridgeway said ahead of Bullyman's release. "I've had good feedback so far. I'm keen to put it out there. It's an important story."
The track was produced and mixed by Hazy Cosmic Jive Studio and mastered by Studio 301.
Bullyman will be available on all digital music platforms on Friday, July 12.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
