Narrogin Town Hall hosts From Be-Bop To Hip-Hop’s groundbreaking WA Youth Jazz Orchestra show with Zero Emcee

Opposites attract, according to this unlikely music duo, who will drop in at Narrogin during their State tour combining jazz and hip-hop in a groundbreaking celebration of Noongar and Jingili culture. Noonjar and Jingili rapper Zero Emcee and the WA Youth Jazz Orchestra will bring their infectious performance, From Be-Bop To Hip-Hop, to Narrogin Town Hall on August 30 at 7.30pm for a unique all-ages event including a post-show Q&A with the performers. The unexpected pairing originated in 2022, giving Zero Emcee’s lyrics new life and appreciation through WAYJO’s instruments and style. Zero’s hip-hop represents the spirit of his Noongar and Jingili culture with pride, reflecting a deep connection to his roots through his lyrics. Zero said touring with WAYJO was a dream come true and there were more similarities between the two styles than people thought. “They both make you move your feet,” he said. “You can really see the similarity when hip-hop producers use jazz in their beats. “This fusion of hip-hop and jazz appeals to music lovers of all ages, and I am really excited to take it on tour for new audiences across WA to discover it.” The WAYJO has been at the forefront of Australian youth jazz orchestras for 40 years, selecting the greatest young musicians to showcase their talents across three bands. Artistic director Mace Francis said Zero was an excellent person with a great talent for music that spread an influential and strong message, which was why the collaboration worked so well. “The big band line-up is the perfect ensemble to support his larger-than-life performer and powerful lyrics,” Francis said. “We have been working together since 2022, adding repertoire for each show, and we’re even adding some classic funk and soul remixes to this tour program.” Indigenous Narrogin High School students will also work alongside the performer leading up to the show in a songwriting workshop.