Midnight Oil

Lyrics

7 ContributorsGadigal Land LyricsWelcome to Gadigal land
Welcome to Gadigal country
Welcome to Gadigal land
Welcome to Gadigal land
Do you know our story?
Welcome to Gadigal land

Don’t you bring your poison
Don’t you bring your grog
Don’t you bring your smallpox
Sure to kill our mob
Don’t you bring your justice
Don’t you bring your gaols
Don’t you bring your armies
Troopers on our trails

So welcome to Gadigal land
Welcome to Gadigal country
Welcome to Gadigal land
Welcome to Gadigal land
Have you heard our history?
Welcome to Gadigal land

We don’t need your convicts
We don’t need your thieves
We don’t need your squatters
Or your emancipees
Don’t you dam our rivers
Don’t you fell our trees
Don’t you carve our wilderness
Don’t you net our seas
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In the land that’s in a spell
Every day since the day you came is a day of rage
It’s a day of rage

Welcome to Gadigal land
Wenyo wenyo wenyo!
Welcome to Gadigal land
Wenyo wenyo wenyo!

Mudjaru ngaya wunyang
(take pity on my bad pronunciation)
Ngandu bayabawai….ngara
(they told us they were sorry…listen)
Ngarawa darayawai, darimi
(but I think they’ve made a mistake, because for a long time)
Garamawaimi baya mudjin, wa?
(they stole my speech and family, see?)
Birrongaingun ngarawan
(our stars are now further away)
Always will be Gadigal land

It’s unfolding you’re unloading
Your high and mighty prison ships

We can live without your muskets
We can live without your guns
We can live without your strychnine
We can live without your rum
We can live without your gallows
We can do without your chains
We can do without the massacres
The sorrow and the pain
So welcome to Gadigal land
Wenyo wenyo wenyo!
Welcome to Wiradjuri land
Welcome to Yorta Yorta land
Welcome to Arrernte land
Welcome to Mirning land
Welcome to Gurindji land
All of the lands
Welcome!

If you're a fan of Midnight Oil, then you're in for a treat with their latest release, "Gadigal Land." This powerful and soulful song not only showcases the band's distinctive sound but also pays homage to the traditional owners of the lands of eastern Sydney, the Gadigal people. Released as the first single from their twelfth studio album, The Makarrata Project, "Gadigal Land" marks a significant moment in Midnight Oil's career as it is their first new release in 17 years since 'No Man's Land' in 2003.

About Gadigal Land

In "Gadigal Land," Midnight Oil brings forth a potent blend of rock and indigenous influences to create an anthem that resonates deeply with both Australian history and contemporary social issues. Drawing inspiration from the Gadigal people, who are the traditional owners of the lands of eastern Sydney, the song serves as a recognition of the Gadigal people's enduring connection to the land and their fight for justice and reconciliation.

The song begins with a driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs that give it a distinct Midnight Oil feel. Lead vocalist Peter Garrett's raw and emotive vocals are accompanied by guest artists Bunna Lawrie, Dan Sultan, Joel Davison, and Kaleena Briggs, who further enrich the song with their unique voices and perspectives. Together, they deliver a performance filled with energy and passion.

Lyrically, "Gadigal Land" paints a vivid picture of the struggles faced by the Gadigal people and their quest for justice. The song addresses the ongoing issue of land rights, calling attention to the importance of recognizing the sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and supporting their self-determination.

One of the standout elements of "Gadigal Land" is the incorporation of indigenous language throughout the song. The use of traditional language adds an authentic and powerful layer to the music, allowing listeners to connect even more profoundly with the Gadigal people's culture and their deep connection to the land. It serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity of indigenous languages and their significance in preserving cultural heritage.

The collaboration between Midnight Oil and the guest artists on "Gadigal Land" is nothing short of extraordinary. Each artist brings their own unique style and perspective to the song, seamlessly blending their voices to create a harmonious and powerful chorus. It is a testament to the importance of collaboration and unity in the pursuit of justice and reconciliation.

Midnight Oil's passion for social and political issues has always been at the forefront of their music, and "Gadigal Land" is no exception. The song not only sheds light on the struggles faced by the Gadigal people but also serves as a call to action for a more inclusive and just society. It embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, urging listeners to stand alongside the Gadigal people and support their fight for justice and equality.

With its powerful message, infectious energy, and profound cultural significance, "Gadigal Land" is a testament to the enduring relevance of Midnight Oil as a band. It showcases their unwavering commitment to using their music as a platform for social change and their dedication to honoring and amplifying indigenous voices.

As you listen to "Gadigal Land," allow yourself to be transported to the ancient lands of eastern Sydney, where the spirit of the Gadigal people still thrives. Let the music immerse you in their story, their struggles, and their unwavering connection to the land. And most importantly, let it inspire you to join the chorus for justice and reconciliation.

• Release Date: August 7, 2020
• Artist: Midnight Oil