Description |
1 online resource (streaming video file) (25 min. 48 sec.) ; 154740347 bytes |
Summary |
Uncle Kiddo Taylor (who sadly passed away just after this program was made) played chromatic harp. He was one of the fathers of the "Broome Sound". He lived in a humble house on the coast and supplemented his pension with fishing and shell gathering.Uncle Kiddos music reflects life in his West Australian pearling town. There is a history of exploitation and segregation, but also a vibrant mix of cultures and a strong sense of community. The sweet-sad sound is known as saltwater blues as its likely to bring a tear to your eye. It has had a significant impact on the indigenous music scene and made Uncle Kiddo a vital and positive force in the lives of younger generations.Although his was often a hand to mouth existence, Uncle Kiddo always had an irrepressible urge to have a good time. It was this indomitable spirit that made watching Saltwater Bluesman like going to a party. This program is a foot-tapping introduction to a delightful character, who was regarded with affection by those who knew him.This program, reflecting on Uncle Kiddos long life, recalls his days working on the luggers as a 15 year old, borrowing his first harmonica and teaming up with his mate Micky. The two friends started to catch on, even performing over the local taxi companys two-way radio. As their fame spread, they were invited to Darwin, where they played for the Prime Ministers wife.Its a vibrant and colourful story, a tribute to a talented musician and respected community elder.Written and directed by mitch torres; co-produced by Rod Freedman and Jeffrey Bruer.A Film Australia National Interest program in association with Macumba Media Enterprises and SBS Independent |
Event |
Broadcast 2012-07-24 at 19:30:00 |
Notes |
Classification: G |
Subject |
Aboriginal Australians -- Ethnic identity.
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Aboriginal Australians -- Music.
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Musicians -- Biography.
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Musicians -- Social conditions.
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Australia.
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Form |
Streaming video
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Author |
Torres, Mitch, director
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Albert, Stephen, contributor
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Hamaguchi, Pearl, contributor
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Manolis, Michael, contributor
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Pigram, Stephen, contributor
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Robinson, Margaret, contributor
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Taylor, Kiddo, contributor
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