Noongar-Wongi hip-hop artist and activist FLEWNT has released 'Souwess,' a sunny and soulful love note to his country and community on Australia's west coast.
In an ode to his people, culture, and distinctive landscapes of Western Australia, from the central desert to the coastal shores, this melodic 90s RnB track features the rapper's rapid wordplay, harmonising on an iconic west coast style beat.
Hailing from his hometown of Boorloo (Perth), FLEWNT conveys his affection and pride for the sun-kissed state known as 'the 6k'.
The old-school inspired scenes in the music video showcase FLEWNT and his crew, which includes his son and fellow hip-hop artist INKABEE, cruising through the streets of Boorloo on vintage high-rise bicycles and a classic 1985 VK Commodore.
Directed by Western Australian director Uncool Sam, the video ends with FLEWNT returning to his roots on country, while capturing the distant city lights on the horizon.
'Souwess' was produced by FLEWNT's enduring collaborator, Optamus, receiving masterful treatment from Rob Shaker and saw its release under the banner of the newly established Western Australian record label, First Nations Focus.
"Souwess actually came to me when exploring the sounds coming from here in the West," said FLEWNT.
"I really fell in love with the unique sound; the uniqueness of how these stories are told through music; how the diversity of country really cuts through; and how I feel so deeply connected to the place but also the music.
"The name 'Souwess' represents a cultural understanding of what the South-West of WA is – the familiar sound of mob slurring it into one word, and the pride that we carry for this country."
By day, FLEWNT is a youth worker, which includes running a mentorship program at Banksia and Casuarina prisons in Western Australia.
Beyond his music career, he actively engages with communities across the state, driven by a deep passion for empowering young people and the broader community through hip-hop and music as a means of sharing culture and promoting truth-telling.
"Through my work with community and also travelling as a performing artist, I get to explore and connect to different places and different mob, which has given me a perspective of my state and that it needs to be celebrated," FLEWNT said.
"I feel as though I have an obligation to share this with the world, some of the experiences that I have been able to have through my music."
Released in the Noongar season of Kambarang – the season of birth, marking the return of the warm weather – Souwess is a track made for the sun-on-skin Summer weather.
