20- year old Danzel Baker, also known as Baker Boy, is from the Milingimbi community in Northeast Arnhem Land, northern territory. Being a young rapper, Baker wants to use music to help young indigenous kids navigate their way through both traditional and western worlds. English is his third language, after his local tongue, which made him wonder why he would even write lyrics in English. Although there are native Australian rappers, none of them rap in indigenous language, so he decided to take that task upon himself and started writing. For several years Baker has been working with the Indigenous Hip-Hop Projects (IHHP), which uses the musical form to connect with young people who might be getting involved in harmful behaviours such as taking drugs, drinking and sniffing petrol. Baker started to become a role model:
” It’s important for kids living in remote communities to see and hear themselves represented in popular culture.”
Bakers’ latest song and video, released this month, features images showcasing the spectacular Milingimbi scenery and it’s cultural heritage in dance, music and art.
