Baker Boy Cleaned Up At Last Night’s ARIAs
It was a powerful moment.
In news that will surprise precisely no one, rising star Baker Boy cleaned up at last night’s ARIAs. The 26-year-old Yolŋu artist took home five awards for his critically acclaimed album, Gela, including the prestigious Album of the Year award, as well as Best Solo Artist and Best Hip-Hop Release.
“Oh my heart,” he said as he accepted his award, before delivering a speech in the Indigenous language Yolŋu Matha — native to northeast Arnhem Land where he grew up. Watch Baker Boy give his full acceptance speech below.
After performing his thumping track ‘Meditjin’ for a buzzing crowd at Hordern Pavilion, the rapper was soon back on stage to accept the gong for Best Hip-Hop/Rap Release, which he dedicated to his family and to young people back home.
“We can make that success… I did it, I’ve been there and I know you can,” he said.
Last night’s awards shone a well-deserved spotlight on First Nations talent. Yolŋu surf rockers King Stingray took home the Michael Gudinski Breakthrough Artist award, 18-year-old R&B sweetheart Budjerah nabbed Best Soul/R&B Release with their EP Conversations, and global phenomenon The Kid LAROI won Best Pop Release with ‘Thousand Miles’.
More on our favourite ARIA nominees here.