Just last week, homegrown pop hero Isaiah Firebrace unveiled his soulful new single, ‘Know Me Better’. The title of the track really does spell out its message – it’s a self-assured bop, with smooth RnB-tinged production, Firebrace’s silky vocals and an underlying dancefloor-ready groove.
“I finally feel like I’m starting to know myself better and I am heading in the direction I want to with my music,” says the artist. “I’ve been in the studio a lot over the last three years and have experimented with lots of styles but ‘Know Me Better’ is a song that I’m really proud to release. I love the song, I love the production.”
The Yorta Yorta and Gunditjmara musician – touted as Australia’s most-streamed First Nations male pop artist – has spent much of the last few years reflecting on and sharing his life’s experiences, a journey that is ultimately reflected in his new music.
To celebrate the release, we asked Firebrace to curate a playlist of his Top 10 Australian & First Nation Bops – which includes a range of jams from the likes of anthemic pop balladers Jessica Mauboy and Stan Walker to up anD coming hip hop ad RnB stars The Kid LAROI, Yung Warriors, Adrian Swish and Lara Andallo, all of which are guaranteed to pump you up.
Have a read – and check out the full playlist – below.
Isaiah Firebrace’s Pump-Up-Playlist Of Iconic Australian & First Nation Bops
Stan Walker – ‘Choose You’
A bit of an older song but it’s one of my favourites of Stan’s. It’s one of the first songs I heard of his and, of course, you can’t go wrong with that tone in his voice! I like the sentiment of this song and Stan’s connected, powerful range really makes this song shine.
Jessica Mauboy – ‘Can I Get A Moment’
Always have and always will be a fan of Jess. A unique, powerful voice with amazing range, she has inspired me in many ways. This song is one of my favourites of Jess’, with a producing credit to Babyface, there’s no doubt this song has all the elements of a funky RnB banger.
The Kid LAROI – ‘Let Her Go’
Exciting things ahead for this 16-year-old! He is killing it at the moment and working with some high-level artists and producers where his sound is getting more refined. He does such a wholesome job in his recordings. It feels soulful and driven. It’s awesome to see a young artist really going for it and staying true to themselves and their creative vision.
Dami Im – ‘Super Love’
I’m a fan of Dami and her powerful voice and sweet personality. I just love the vibe of this song! It’s energetic and fun, and I love Dami’s piano playing. The ad-libs towards the end are awesome.
Yung Warriors – ‘Standing Strong’
One of the most well-known Indigenous Hip-Hop/Rap groups the Young Warriors are popular amongst the JJJ scene and in black communities. This song is so iconic in our community! It has flavours of real old school Hip-Hop.
Lara Andallo – ‘180 (feat. Lil Spacely)’
Lara is one of my favourite up and coming female RnB artists. With her style, her moves and sensual vocals she is one to watch. This song gives me vibes and makes me want to dance! She reminds me of great artists likes of Tinashe, Pia Mia and Kiana Ledé
Adrian Swish – ‘Let You Know’
A talented producer as well as a vocalist, Adrian does such a great job in contemporary RnB. He understands the genre and style which makes his songs absolute bangers! I love the sample on this track.
ASHER – ‘HOPE’
I love Asher’s recording style. It sits well with what’s current but doesn’t lose the soul. He is one of my favourites up and coming RnB/Rap artists in Aus. He does such a good job at keeping his music unique to him with his amazing songwriting skills.
https://soundcloud.com/user-371656508/hope/s-gcuqb2Da5Ok
Guy Sebastian – ‘Like A Drum’
This song reminds me of road trips with my Dad and always hearing this on the radio and turning it up. It’s got energy! Guy is a great artist and I love his range of music from Soul to Pop, to RnB and Hip-Hop influencers in his music. It’s super inspiring and his voice is undeniable.
Aydan Califiore – ‘Wide Awake’
Aydan is such all-round talented guy with the confidence, voice and moves to make any roof fly off. His connection with his fans is really great and they give all the love back to him! He is a hard worker and deserving of all success he gets. I really like the melody in this song and the bassline is killer. It’s exciting to see what else Aydan does in the future and the journey his music will take.
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