Youth subcultures in the Wollongong region

Continuing my PhD research, Rob Evitt (A directed Studies student from UOW) and I have been carrying out a number of interviews with young Indigenous hip hoppers from across the Wollongong region. Our work has been investigating the significance of place in hip hop performances.

We are finding that more established and recognised Indigenous artists such as Wire MC, Brotha Black and popular group Street Warriors (formally part of Local Knowledge) are helping to inspire and informally school many young Indigenous rappers through workshops and mentoring. Much of their teaching is centred around ways to utilise hip hop as a contemporary vehicle for expressing a young Aborignal identity.

The pictures below depict some research participants during live performances, along with a performance at the Wollongong Viva La Gong Festival by well known hip hoppers Wire MC, Morganics and DJ Floskel.