Mitch Tambo Reimagines First Nations Hip-Hop Anthem BLACKFELLAS

Acclaimed First Nations entertainer Mitch Tambo has released a powerful reimagining of the groundbreaking 2005 track Blackfellas, celebrating the 20th anniversary of one of the most iconic songs in First Nations hip-hop history.

The 2025 version of Blackfellas unites three generations of Blak excellence, featuring Street Warriors’ Abie Wright—an original member of Local Knowledge—and rising rapper Jamahl Yami. With updated verses, bold production, and culturally rich storytelling, the track honours the song’s legacy while bringing it roaring into the present day.

“I grew up listening to Blackfellas. It was the first time I heard our stories told like that—with power, pride, and truth. Twenty years on, I wanted to honour that legacy and invite the next generation into the conversation,” says Mitch 

Produced by Mitch’s long-time collaborator Rob Amoruso (The Rubens, Macy Gray, Kelly Rowland, Baker Boy), the 2025 version blends contemporary beats with the original’s unapologetic spirit. The track lands during NAIDOC Week 2025, amplifying its message of Blak pride, identity, and strength.

Blackfellas was originally released by Local Knowledge, the pioneering hip-hop group formed in Newcastle by Abie and Wok Wright along with Joel Wenitong. The song was on high rotation on triple j, featured on Live at the Wireless, and was the subject of a SBS documentary. It remains one of the most significant First Nations tracks ever produced in Australia.

“This song still speaks to the struggles and the power of our people,” says Abie Wright. “To revisit it with Mitch and Jamahl—two artists who are shaping the future of Blak music—is something really special.”

Jamahl adds, “It’s an honour to work with Mitch and Uncle Abie to make a track for our peoples and to influence the next generation to carry themselves with the strength of their ancestors. This song is a call of unity to all our mob across our nations and across generations to take pride in our culture and ourselves. To have the vision to see a better future and the strength to carry out our mission so that we can leave a legacy and honour the legacy left by our ancestors.”