Mau Power is a lyrical storyteller from Thursday Island in the Torres Straits. For many years he has been guided by two cultures, Indigenous culture and Hip Hop culture. “The only way for me to tell the story of how these cultures entwine and connect is for me to tell my own story.” The result is Mau Power’s new album ‘The Show Will Go On’.
The first single to be released is ‘Island Home’ and contains a sample of My Island Home, the Christine Anu Australian classic which was originally sung by the Warumpi Band in 1987.
Christine Anu’s version won APRA song of the year in 1995 and it was listed in the top 30 songs of all time in 2001. Mau Power’s new single is a Hip Hop remake that samples Christine Anu’s version, that blends beautifully with the original sample capturing the energy and beauty of the original song and features the smooth, mature, soulful and insightful lyrics of Mau Power. The new version is culturally respectful with the video providing a beautiful image into the tropical lifestyle and culture of Australia’s most northern point.
Mau Power recorded his first song in Brisbane when he was 17 and was attending the University of Southern Queensland. Shortly after this time he was incarcerated and while in prison, the song was leaked throughout the Islands. “When I was locked up I came to a cross road. I used that time to plan my next move so when I was released everything was lined up. I began focusing on the business of music, the industry as well as the recording. I took what I learnt from my studies in mechanical engineering and applied it to sound engineering.” As a result of these plans and some positive action, Mau Power is now the owner of his own music company, a strong community leader and works with youth throughout the Straits and Australia, running workshops for people such as Desert Pea Media and Unicef.
‘The Show Will Go On’ is an autobiographical album taking us on a journey through the pinnacles of Mau Power’s life. It is the art of storytelling that embodies the connection of two cultures that makes Mau Power a truly unique Australian artist with universal appeal.
Mau Power will hit the road and showcase songs from his new album over the next month. His live show consists of a five piece band - Two MC's, a live soul singer, DJ and Traditional Torres Strait Dancer in full costume. The show is high energy, interactive and blends Hip Hop with some traditional elements of Torres Strait Culture. More than a show, it is an event!
Listen back to Big Mob with Jess Fairfax for a live set from Mau Power.
