David Arden

Proud Kokatha/Gunditjmara singer, songwriter and musical director, Dave Arden has carved a remarkable path in this country’s music scene with his soulful compositions and rich cultural storytelling. Raised by his extended family in the inner Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, his journey is marked by a fusion of folk, blues and rock influences, delivering a sound that is uniquely his own. His songwriting delves deep into the experiences of his people, touching on themes of identity, place and social justice. Beginning his career as frontman for the Koori Youth Band during the 1980s, Arden has also performed and toured with legendary First Nations artists Hard Times, Mixed Relations, Bart Willoughby, Archie Roach, Ruby Hunter and Kutcha Edwards, amongst others. His relationship with Archie and Ruby would serve as the foundation for years of collaboration and friendship resulting in his appointment as musical director for Black Arm Band in 2006 as well as the creation of two albums, Kookatha/Gunditjmara (2008) and Red Desert Man (2020). In 2023, he launched his fifth EP album MEERTA– Rise Up! The Ballad of James Arden with a show commissioned by Yirramboi and Arts Centre Melbourne telling the story of his Great Grandfather James Arden and the Gunditjmara People. In this interview with Daniel James, Arden reflects on his rich family heritage, experiencing racism, incarceration and the beauty of keeping his mobs’ storytelling alive in song. Interviewer: Daniel James Location: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, 2023