Mitch Tambo honours Tina Turner with language cover of 'The Best'

Joseph Guenzler
Joseph Guenzler Published September 11, 2024 at 10.00am (AWST)

Gamilaroi musician Mitch Tambo, known for his dynamic presence and cultural pride, will release a new version of Tina Turner's hit 'The Best' to mark its 35th anniversary.

In this rendition, Tambo performs the song in his traditional Gamilaroi language, giving it a unique cultural twist.

His version not only pays tribute to the late Turner but also serves as a powerful celebration of culture, empowerment, and the unifying role of music.

"Tina Turner's version of 'The Best' has pumped up fans for decades, and I'm one of them," said Mr Tambo.

"Tina's exhilarating live pre-game performance of the song at the NRL Grand Final back in 1993 was incredible – it was such a uniting moment in Australia for cultures, codes and footy fans alike."

He aimed to recreate the song's energy in language, highlighting music's universal ability to uplift.

"I wanted to recreate that same energy but with a twist," he said.

"Singing it in Gamilaroi is a way to show that great music crosses all boundaries - it's universal.

"This one's for Tina and everyone who believes in the power of music to lift us up."

2024 has been a big year for Tambo, performing on more than 100 stages across Australia during his Walanbaa Youth Tour, where he was praised for promoting positivity and empowering young people through his mix of culture and pop.

He also released "Tambo Jamz, Vol. 1," a collection of 60 instrumental tracks that crossed genres, earning radio play and recognition both locally and internationally.

'The Best' will be available on all major streaming services from Friday 27 September.

Mitch Tambo has several upcoming performances in 2024, including:

27 September: New Annual, Newcastle, NSW

12 October: Many Mobs Dunggula Cultural Festival, Yarrawonga, VIC

25 October: Milbi Festival, Bargara, QLD

1 November: Blue Heeler Film Festival, Denman, NSW

2 November: Denman Wine Food and Film Affair, Denman, NSW

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National Indigenous Times

Disclaimer: This function is AI-generated and therefore may mispronounce.