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photo: EBU/SBS
We can not wait for the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö. Therefore, we have a closer look at one of the contestants every day. Today: Australia.
Electric Fields
Electric Fields is an Australian electronic music duo, composed of the talented vocalist Zaachariaha Fielding and keyboardist/producer Michael Ross. They incorporate Pitjantjatjara, Yankunytjatjara, and English into their music. Their musical journey includes the release of an EP, numerous singles, and their upcoming representation of Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 with their song “One Milkali (One Blood).”
The duo’s origins trace back to their solo appearances on The X Factor Australia, with Fielding competing in 2011 and Ross in 2013. They united as Electric Fields in 2015, debuting with the celebrated EP “Inma” in 2016, which was lauded for its emotional resonance and cultural richness. They’ve been recognized with several awards, including Best New Talent at the 2017 National Indigenous Music Awards, and have gained prominence for their performances and collaborations, including a notable partnership with Norwegian group Keiino.
Electric Fields stands out not only for their music but also for their personal stories and advocacy. Fielding, from Mimili in the APY lands, brings a rich Indigenous Australian heritage to their music and visual arts, earning significant accolades such as the Wynne Prize and Ramsay Art Prize People’s Choice prize in 2023. Ross contributes a diverse musical influence, enhancing their sound. Together, they embody a philosophy of authenticity and unity, breaking conventional boundaries and celebrating their queer identities. Their story, told in the documentary “Voice From The Desert,” highlights their journey and the transformative power of their music.
Yankunytjatjara
The Yankunytjatjara language is a proud testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Indigenous Australia, belonging to the Western Desert language group. Spoken by the Yankunytjatjara people, it thrives in the central desert region of Australia, particularly around Uluru and the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. Despite facing challenges from historical and modern pressures, efforts to revitalize and preserve Yankunytjatjara are robust, involving educational programs and community initiatives. Its linguistic structure, embodying the intricate relationship between the land and its people, offers invaluable insights into Indigenous knowledge, ecology, and spirituality. Yankunytjatjara not only facilitates communication but also serves as a living repository of ancestral wisdom and cultural identity.
Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest
The first Australian performance in the Eurovision Song Contest was Jessica Mauboy’s guest performance in 2014. As a reward for years of broadcasting the contest, Australia was able to take part in the contest itself for the first time in 2015. Guy Sebastian debuted with “Tonight again” and reached a 5th place. A year later, Dami Im was 2nd in the contest with her song “Sound of silence”. With three more top-10 positions, up until last year with Voyager, Australia is quite a succesful country in the Eurovision Song Contest.
The Bookmakers
Australia is currently 27th in the betting odds to win the contest. However, fans expect a special performance during the contest itself, which might completely change the odds for Electric Fields.
The song
This is the song:
