Nana Wu
Noongar Wongi rapper Inkabee has made a profound impact with his debut on triple j’s revered ‘Like A Version’ segment, delivering a compelling rendition of the Black Eyed Peas’ 2003 anthem, “Where Is the Love?”. The performance not only showcased his formidable talent and maturity but also marked him as one of the youngest artists ever to grace the iconic studio, resonating deeply with audiences and reinforcing his burgeoning reputation as a significant voice in contemporary Australian music. "I just thought it’s the most perfect song for how the world is right now," the Perth-based artist stated, succinctly capturing the profound relevance of his song choice in a globally tumultuous era.
The ‘Like A Version’ segment, a weekly staple on Australia’s national youth broadcaster triple j, has long been a pivotal platform for both established and emerging artists to reinterpret beloved tracks. Since its inception, the segment has cultivated a unique cultural significance, offering a space where musicians can demonstrate their versatility, creativity, and interpretive prowess, often leading to viral moments and increased mainstream exposure. For many Australian acts, a successful ‘Like A Version’ performance can be a career-defining moment, propelling them into the national consciousness and cementing their artistic credibility. Past performances by artists ranging from Ocean Alley to Flume and The Jezabels have not only topped charts but have also become embedded in Australian music lore, highlighting the immense prestige associated with an invitation to the triple j studios. Inkabee’s inclusion, particularly at his tender age, underscores the industry’s recognition of his exceptional talent and the powerful resonance of his message.
Inkabee, hailing from Boorloo (Perth) and representing his Noongar Wongi heritage, chose to tackle a song that, while nearly two decades old, feels remarkably current. The Black Eyed Peas’ original “Where Is the Love?” was a global phenomenon, released in the wake of significant geopolitical events and social unrest. Its lyrics questioned the decline of humanity, addressing themes of terrorism, racism, pollution, war, and intolerance. Inkabee’s full-band arrangement breathed new life into the conscious hip-hop classic, transforming it into a contemporary plea for compassion and unity. His delivery was marked by a striking blend of youthful energy and profound understanding, showcasing a lyrical dexterity and emotional depth that belied his age. The performance was not merely a cover; it was an interpretation imbued with the lived experiences and cultural perspective of a young Indigenous artist, adding layers of meaning to the song’s universal call for love and understanding. The confidence with which he navigated the complex lyrical landscape and the intricate musical arrangement spoke volumes about his artistic command, positioning him not just as a rapper but as a compelling storyteller and advocate.
The decision to cover "Where Is the Love?" was, for Inkabee, an intuitive one. Recounting the moment of inspiration, he explained, "Me and my mum were driving in the car and we already had our Like A Version song picked out. But we were just listening to songs and ‘Where Is The Love?’ came on. We were listening and I just thought it’s the most perfect song for how the world is right now." This spontaneous connection highlights Inkabee’s innate ability to tap into the prevailing global zeitgeist. In a world grappling with escalating conflicts, social fragmentation, and environmental crises, the song’s central question — where is the love amidst all this division? — resonates more strongly than ever. Inkabee’s performance served as a poignant reminder of these challenges, transforming a pop hit into a powerful contemporary commentary and a call to action, amplified by the authenticity of his Indigenous voice.
Inkabee’s journey to this significant milestone has been a rapid ascent, marked by an impressive series of achievements that defy his years. His musical career began remarkably early, with the release of his debut track, “Beat the Odds,” in December 2022. Collaborating with his father, the acclaimed rapper and activist Flewnt, Inkabee was just 11 years old when the track dropped. This powerful debut immediately garnered national attention, attracting significant press coverage and radio play across Australia. The song’s mature themes and Inkabee’s undeniable talent earned the duo two nominations at the prestigious West Australian Music Awards, signaling his arrival as a serious contender in the Australian music scene.
The subsequent collaboration with his father, “We Dat Good,” further solidified Inkabee’s rising star. A live performance of the track on triple j’s ‘Bars of Steel’ segment went viral, accumulating an astonishing more than 10 million views online. This unprecedented digital reach introduced Inkabee to a far wider, international audience, transforming him from a local prodigy into a globally recognized talent. The viral success underscored the power of digital platforms in launching careers and demonstrated Inkabee’s ability to captivate and connect with diverse audiences through his authentic voice and compelling narratives.
In 2023, Inkabee’s trajectory continued its steep upward curve, marked by a series of high-profile appearances and accolades. One of the most significant moments came at SXSW Sydney, the inaugural Australian iteration of the renowned global festival. On stage, he received a ringing endorsement from none other than Grammy-winning artist Chance the Rapper, who introduced Inkabee as “the future of Australian hip-hop.” This declaration from an international superstar not only provided immense validation but also projected Inkabee onto a global stage, signaling to the music world that a new, vital voice had emerged from Australia.
His resume from 2023 alone reads like that of a seasoned artist. Inkabee performed at the Indigenous round of the Australian Football League (AFL) at Perth’s Optus Stadium, captivating a live audience of 60,000 people and reaching millions more through television broadcasts. This performance on such a significant national sporting and cultural platform highlighted the growing intersection of Indigenous music and mainstream Australian identity. He also graced the stage at Vivid Sydney, performing at the iconic Sydney Opera House, a testament to his artistic versatility and appeal across different cultural events. Further broadening his international exposure, Inkabee showcased his talent at SXSW Texas, the original and larger counterpart to the Sydney festival, solidifying his presence on the global music circuit.
Adding to his impressive list of achievements, Inkabee was named the triple j Unearthed High Indigenous Initiative winner. The triple j Unearthed High program is renowned for identifying and nurturing young musical talent across Australia, with its alumni list featuring some of the country’s most successful contemporary artists, including Genesis Owusu, The Kid LAROI, and Hockey Dad. This award not only provided Inkabee with invaluable industry support and exposure but also placed him among an elite group of artists who have gone on to achieve significant national and international acclaim, further validating the promise and potential recognized in his early work.
The broader implications of Inkabee’s ‘Like A Version’ performance extend beyond his individual career trajectory. His presence on such a prominent national platform, delivering a message of unity and compassion through a culturally resonant song, serves as a powerful symbol of youth activism and Indigenous representation in Australia. As a young Noongar Wongi artist, Inkabee embodies a new generation of Indigenous voices shaping the national narrative through art. His success underscores the growing recognition and celebration of Indigenous culture within the Australian music industry and broader society, challenging stereotypes and fostering greater understanding. His confident and articulate engagement with global themes also positions him as a potential role model for countless young people, particularly those from Indigenous communities, inspiring them to pursue their creative passions and use their voices for positive change.
In a rapidly evolving global music landscape, artists like Inkabee represent the future. His ability to blend traditional heritage with contemporary sounds, coupled with a keen awareness of social issues, positions him as a unique and influential figure. The exposure gained from triple j, combined with his already robust international profile, suggests a future filled with continued innovation and impact. His rendition of “Where Is the Love?” is more than just a cover; it is a statement, a reflection, and a hopeful plea from a young artist who understands the power of music to bridge divides and inspire change. As Inkabee continues to evolve and create, his journey will undoubtedly serve as a beacon, illustrating the profound potential of art to articulate the human condition and foster a more connected world.
