Kee’ahn: Songs, Valuing Authenticity and Community

In this episode, I’m joined by Kee’ahn — a Kuku Yalanji, Jirrbal and Badu Island pop-soul artist now living and creating on Kulin Nations (Melbourne).We talk about Kee’ahn’s early relationship with music, from singing with their father as a child, growing up on The Little Mermaid, Destiny’s Child, and being encouraged by a supportive grandmother, through to performing musical theatre alongside their dad. Kee’ahn shares what it was like moving from North Queensland to Naarm/Melbourne, finding community, and building meaningful musical collaborations.We discuss their debut single Better Things, winning the Archie Roach Foundation Award (and finding out via Zoom), and the impact of mentorship and collaboration with Emma Donovan, including their work together on Take No More. Kee’ahn also reflects on performing at major festivals across Australia, singing at the Invasion Day Rally on January 26th 2025, and the importance of authenticity, connection to Country, and community.The conversation also explores the significance of releasing a debut EP as a complete body of work rather than a series of singles, and what that represents creatively and personally.A thoughtful and open conversation about music, identity, and finding your place.