Emma Donovan brings her ‘Songs, Stories, and Soul from Family and Country’ show to Geelong
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20.03.2024

Emma Donovan brings her ‘Songs, Stories, and Soul from Family and Country’ show to Geelong

Credit: Ian Laidlaw
Words by Staff Writer

As Emma Donovan continues to share her songs, stories, and soul with audiences around the world, her music remains a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of Indigenous culture and identity.

Renowned Indigenous singer-songwriter Emma Donovan is set to captivate audiences with her latest show, “Songs, Stories, and Soul from Family and Country,” coming to the Potato Shed on Saturday, April 13th.

Fresh from supporting Texan country music sensation Charley Crockett, Emma Donovan is ready to share songs from her upcoming album, Til My Song is Done, due for release 19 April.

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

Emma Donovan proudly leads the charge in spotlighting traditional languages in music, a commitment reflected in her performances. Hailing from the Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji peoples, Emma weaves stories and songs that celebrate her rich heritage, offering audiences a deeper connection to Country and community.

Her forthcoming solo album, set for release on April 19th, marks a significant homecoming for Donovan. Returning to her roots in country music, Emma’s album reflects her musical journey, from childhood performances with her renowned family band to her collaborations in funk, soul, and R&B.

Comprising of 11 tracks with the previous singles ‘Blak Nation’ and ‘Lovin’ Looks Like’, the long player also features Paul Kelly on the dreamy waltz, ‘Sing Over You’ and the acclaimed Liz Stringer on the album’s opening track ‘Change is Coming’.

Faced with an opportunity to record her first solo album in 20 years and her first album after 8 years without The Putbacks ensemble, Donovan says she was propelled into some deep introspection.

“I wanted to approach the album as a clean slate, but looking back at what makes me who I am,” Donovan explains. “I began by asking myself, who am I? Who is Emma Donovan? And what do I want to do? I want to be the deadly granddaughter, niece and daughter. I want to make my family proud. Til My Song is Done is honouring that legacy of our family country music ways.

“That’s exactly what this album is for me, like if they’re proud and they’re happy, if the family is honoured, that’s all I need to know. And mum would be proud.

“I know this album is just the start of continuing to stand strong not only for my daughters but for all the other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women working in the Australian music industry today.”

All songs were co-written and produced by Emma and Mick Meagher (The Putbacks, The Bamboos, Kate Ceberano, The Pigram Brothers, Ross Hannaford) with the two sharing a powerful, creative connection, harking back to their shared Black Arm Band days.

Having toured and recorded with icons such as Paul Kelly, The Teskey Brothers, and the late Uncle Archie Roach AC, Emma Donovan’s soulful voice and powerful storytelling have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.

Emma Donovan’s commitment to her craft and cultural heritage shines through in every note, making her show at the Potato Shed a must-see event. Book your tickets now for a chance to experience one of Australia’s most revered voices up close and personal.

For ticket bookings, visit www.potatoshed.com.au, call 5251 1998, or purchase in person at the Box Office, open from 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Fridays.