Frank Yamma, one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous songwriters

DESCRIBED as one of Australia’s most significant Indigenous songwriters with a unique ability to cross cultural and musical boundaries. Frank Yamma will perform live at Archies Creek Hotel on Friday, April 10 at 8: 30pm.

A Pitjantjatjara man, Frank, sings in his native language and in English. His mighty songs, magical guitar playing, and deeply evocative voice tell stories of country, protection, heartache, travel and love.

Frank said he’s always played his Pitjantjatjara songs. “From the time I played with dad and my brothers in the Pitjantjatjara Country band,” said Frank. “I play for my people and for my family. That’s who my songs are for, and I hope that others in the audience will come along for the ride.”

Frank has lived in Adelaide for some time now, with his wife Nganpa. Both of whom come from the APY lands, and many of their countrymen and women live in Adelaide. “This town is close to health care, housing, and other support,” he said. “I will always be connected to the desert, to the centre. I was born in Kaltukatjara, Docker River, near the three-state border of Western Australia, South Australia, and Northern Territory.”

From there, Frank lived in Alice Springs at little sisters for a long time. He explained that he went with his dad to play at community concerts or throughout the territory. “My life is in the songs, the good and the bad.”

When talking about Frank’s songs and their meaning, he said country, protection and love are all part of the story. “Some Love songs, some songs about the beauty of country, some funny, drunk stories, some tragic, drunk stories, some stories aimed at my Countryman,” he said.

Frank has been playing guitar for as long as he can remember. “Since I was a young boy, I’ve had a guitar in my hand,” he explained. “All my mates played guitar too, so we learnt from each other, and I’ve listened and been influenced by so many guitarists.”

Frank said that the most important message in his music, whether it be for the next generation of Indigenous musicians or for his audience, is to stay strong, keep at it, enjoy playing the music, and do it for the music.

Approaching the April performance at Archies Creek, Frank said he loves playing in halls. 

“I love playing in country towns. I love playing with fellow artists like my Wantok label mate, Charles Maimarosia from Malaita in the Solomon Islands. Accompanying me as a young Arrernte guitarist, Jason Renehan, with whom I've been playing for a while now.

“I love encouraging the young ones coming through. My good friend and guitarist Phil Wales will be playing with us as well. I love Phil. But what Charlie and I have in common is greater than our differences; I respect his culture, and he sings in language too. He's a wonderful guitarist and cultural man- our approaches to music will join together as one.”

Tickets available at www.archiescreekhotel.com.au