In an impressive coup against major label power,the Canberra rapper,real name Kofi Owusu-Ansah,managed the win with an independent release,the first artist to accomplish the feat since Flume did withSkin in 2016.
“This is insane. I used to get side-eyed a lot for the way I dressed and the things I did,but all the people I loved and respected always stood firm,unmoveable and unshakeable ’cause we knew the power in who we were and what we created,” Owusu-Ansah said in his acceptance speech.“This just means so much to me.
“For all those people,Goon Club worldwide,eccentrics,black people - know that it’s not up to us to change for people,but it’s up to people to catch up and see what they’ve been missing out on.”
The 23-year-old topped the evening with four wins,also claiming trophies for best hip-hop release,best independent release,and best cover art.
The wins cap a solid run of honours for Owusu-Ansah’sSmiling with No Teeth. Released to international acclaim in March,theambitious album – a remarkable blend of allegorical storytelling,personal politics,and playful sonic exploration – last week also claimed Triple J’s J Award for Australian album of the year.
Wednesday night’s ARIA Awards,a patchwork ceremony featuring pre-recorded segments,international crosses,and live performances at Sydney’s Taronga Zoo,offered overdue recognition for Australia’s exciting hip-hop and R&B scenes,and the diverse talent – largely Indigenous artists,and first- and second-generation African-Australians – who’ve drawn an international spotlight to our local offerings.