Blak Powerhouse Is Back, And This Year, They’re Taking The Crown

First Nations arts, music, and culture event, Blak Powerhouse is set to return for its third consecutive year on January 26, this year at Sydney University’s Manning House.

A collaboration between Powerhouse and Indigenous social enterprise We Are Warriors, the event will feature a free evening of First Nations music, dance, art, workshops and markets, transforming a day associated with loss and sorrow into one of power and positivity.

ARIA award winning singer-songwriters Arrernte/Gurindji man Dan Sultan and Coodjinburra man Budjerah will be headlining the evening, alongside rappers Kobie Dee and Yung Brother, artists RIAH, Minty and Zipporah, and surprise special guests.

“As a proud Gomeroi man, performing at Blak Powerhouse on such a significant day is an honour,” said Minty, who recently collaborated with Malyangapa and Barkindji rap queen, BARKAA on Fruition. “Sharing the stage with some of my idols in Blak music and celebrating our culture through art and community makes this event truly special.”

“Taking Blak Powerhouse to a new level”

An Acknowledgement of Country will begin at 5pm, followed by a traditional dance performance. As the live music performances begin, so will a discussion panel titled Take The Crown at Manning Bar, followed by a screening of We Are Warriors latest documentary.

Gadigal mural artist Jeswri has curated the WAWZone arcade for children and families, and Wiradjuri, Yuin and Gadigal multi-disciplinary artist Nadeena Dixon is hosting hands-on weaving workshops.

The evening will also feature market stalls from First Nations creatives, and food trucks, so attendees can grab dinner without missing a moment.

“After a huge year of Blak music and arts elevating while staying grounded in staunch truths and community spirit, we’ve watched our Blak kings and queens rise,” said We Are Warriors co-founder and rapper Nooky. “We’ve seen our mob take it to new heights we thought it’s only right to fly the We Are Warriors flag once again taking Blak Powerhouse to a new level. This January 26 join us again as we stand in strength, power, love and joy. This time we take the crown.”

Find registration and more details for Blak Powerhouse here.