Perth Voice Interactive

KYLE BARTLETT is bringing indigenous hip-hop to Mt Lawley.

The 27-year-old, who occasionally does some rapping on Bartlett Brothers tracks, is branching out on his own with his band Tribal Legacy.

But don’t expect cliche-ridden lyrics about gangstas, bitches and “shizzle ma nizzle”. Instead, Bartlett wants to promote indigenous empowerment and education.

“Growing up I was exposed to and surrounded by crime, drugs, alcoholism and all the negative effects that come with that,” he says. “At some point in my life I stood back and observed and had a good look at how drugs, alcohol and violence was tearing our indigenous community apart and it was at that point I realised I could either be a part of the problem or a part of the solution.

“So through my music I have been working hard to send a positive message to our future generation through the culture of hip-hop.”

Through such songs as Stand Up Bartlett encourages young Aborigines to empower themselves and to not sink into a vortex of drink and drugs.

“The easy option is to mimic American rappers and sing about all that cliched stuff,” he says.

“The brave option is to say it is a bad lifestyle choice and tell people that through your lyrics.”

Till recently Bartlett worked as a FIFO concreter in the mines but, following the birth of his second son, he has taken up a full time post with Outcare—a not-for-profit group that helps young offenders re-enter society.

“I did a bit of work with them last year, showing some boys how to lay concrete,” he says.

“But with my new baby I want to spend more time at home, and luckily a full-time position came up with them.

“I get to work with a lot of Aboriginal offenders trying to get a foothold back in the community—it’s very rewarding.”

As well as performing with Tribal Legacy on the night, Bartlett is running the event which will feature another two indigenous-style hip-hop acts.
“You don’t get much indigenous hip-hop in Perth, so this event is a bit unique,” he says.

“I’ve recently started studying for a diploma in events management, as my goal is to one day start a business of my own in planning events.”

The indigenous hip-hop night will be at the Velvet Lounge in Mt Lawley on May 29.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK