RISING STRONG

JK-47 ON MUSIC, BROTHERHOOD, AND THE JOURNEY AHEAD

Locale Magazine catches up with award-winning rapper JK-47, a proud Bundjalung and South Sea Islander from Tweed Heads. With his new single "BLAKT OUT" and upcoming EP A Road Less Travelled, JK-47 shares the powerful connections, personal stories, and deep-rooted pride that shape his music.

INTERVIEW BY KAREN KINNERSLY

Your latest single, "BLAKT OUT," radiates a sense of brotherhood and celebration. What was the spark behind this track, and how did your connection with your brother Chiggz shape its vibe?

This song is about those moments when you’re on top of the world and everything just feels right. Having my older brother Chiggz on the track makes it even more special—this one’s for the family.

BLAKT OUT" brings back the nostalgia of cruising in your first car with the music blasting. Do those every day, relatable moments often inspire your songwriting?

BLAKT OUT is a celebration of good vibes and brotherhood. The track paints a vivid picture of cruising in my first car, a ‘blakt out’ Holden, with music cranked up and the crew in the back. It also reflects the close bond between my brother and me. Our connection hopefully comes through in the song’s energy and lyrics. It’s the essence of feeling good and looking good with the mob by your side.

"A ROAD LESS TRAVELLED" feels like a deeply personal body of work. What do you hope listeners connect with the most?

It’s exactly that, taking the road less travelled to get to the destination. However the listener interprets it, whatever they’re going through and whatever they need to do to get to their own destination, taking the road less travelled is the way to do it.77

Growing up on Minyugmbal / Goodjinburra country in Tweed Heads must have left a mark on your music and identity. How has your upbringing shaped the sound and message of your art?

Life was challenging – raised in a single-mum home, with siblings that all had needs. Times were tough, but full of love too.

We’re curious—who’s your biggest musical influence right now, and how are they shaping your current sound?

I listen to Little Simz – I’ve been listening to her album “No Thank You” and drawing a lot of inspiration from a female’s perspective.

As an Indigenous artist in the Australian hip-hop scene, you’ve become a role model for many. How does it feel to hold that position of influence and impact?

It always humbling. It's also about making sure your cup is full to pour from. It’s a blessing.

You’ve been steadily rising in the Australian hip-hop scene. What’s next for you in terms of live shows and new projects?

After a long time, I’m about to hit the road for my “Regrowth Tour”. I'm so happy to share my music and love with everyone. Grab your tickets!

What are some of your goals as an artist? Do you plan to take your music to the global stage?

I’d love to hit all the communities on this Continent first, then yeah – if that’s Gods will.