Manduway shares Indigenous language and culture with music

Identity is often intertwined in family history and for CQUniveristy alumnus Manduway Dutton, the more he learned about his roots, the more the talented artist was inspired in his music.

The Bachelor of Music graduate, who has more than a decade of experience in dance, theatre and as a keyboardist, found empowerment in writing and performing his own music influenced by his Indigenous heritage.

As a proud descendant of the Gumbaynggirr and Barkindji people, Manduway said his newest single titled Gulung brings together a fusion of folk instrumentation with Gumbaynggirr language.

“I grew up in the regional New South Wales town of Grafton and over the past few years have immersed myself in the language revitalisation of the Gumbaynggirr people.

“Gulung is a feel-good folk song and a musical celebration of the ancient craft of coolamon cutting.”

Manduway said he was proud to walk his own path in the current Australian music scene.

“My goal is to share my passion for multilingual music and lyrics with as many people as possible," he said.

“I have facilitated workshops with young people in Cooktown, Grafton, Tamworth, Coffs Harbour and Brisbane.

“Another highlight was performing at Dark Mofo in Hobart alongside my cousin Maanyung.”

Gulung is now available for download exclusively to iTunes. It will be available on other streaming platforms in April 2023.