Australian rapper Briggs and his Bad Apples Music company have pulled together a massive last-minute concert to support the Yes campaign for the upcoming Indigenous Voice referendum, to be held on Yorta Yorta Woka country in Briggs’ hometown of Shepparton.
An artist and First Nations led initiative, Now & Forever is a celebration and invitation to stand in solidarity with community, to amplify choosing yes for the 2023 Referendum.
Now & Forever will be held at the Shepparton Showgrounds on 6 October with a lineup including Briggs’ A.B. Original, Jimmy Barnes, Paul Kelly, Baker Boy, Barkaa, Emma Donovan, Hilltop Hoods, Mo’ju and special guests along the way. Comedian and TV/radio personality Sam Pang will host the day.
The tagline for the concert is “Don’t know? Come to the show.” This is a response to negativity and misinformation that has been circulating around the referendum.
On an instagram post, Briggs wrote: “I had to bring this home because this is where I grew up. We have a once in a generation opportunity to write our future together, and the artists on the bill have signed up for that.
“This is about celebration, inclusivity, solidarity, positivity and listening, as much as it is about a voice. In that spirit, everyone is welcome to the show – even the undecided voters. So come join me and my friends on Yorta-Yorta country!”
Tickets have been priced at an accessible $21.50 each, with all proceeds going to charities and not-for-profit groups. Children 12 and under are free.
Melbourning proudly supports the Voice to Parliament and will be voting Yes.
Top image: Mushroom Creative House