Hall of Fame inductees, Hip-Hop revolutionaries, and social rights activists Public Enemy have today announced a much-anticipated return to Australia to commence their ‘On The Grid 35th Anniversary Tour’ this coming October. Fighting the power with them across the country will be none other than Australian hip-hop duo, A.B. Original.
Wednesday 02 October – Perth, Red Hill Auditorium
Friday 04 October – Adelaide, AEC Theatre
Saturday 05 October – Melbourne, John Cain Arena
Wednesday 09 October – Sydney, Hordern Pavilion
Friday 11 October – Newcastle, Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Saturday 12 October – Brisbane, Eatons Hill Outdoor
Public Enemy was formed in 1985 in Long Island, New York, by friends Chuck D and Flavor Flav and their debut album, Yo! Bum Rush The Show (1987), laid the foundation for their revolutionary sound, blending assertive beats with sharp social commentary. Commencing as an opening act for the Beastie Boys, it was their sophomore effort, It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back (1988), that catapulted them to international fame, helping them to collect a long list of accolades including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. Their 1990 album Fear of a Black Planet gave us the raucous Black anthem that defined a nation, ‘Fight the Power’.
Beyond their musical contributions, Public Enemy’s impact extends to their activism and cultural influence. They were, and remain, at the forefront of the fight against racial injustice and inequality, using their platform to raise awareness and spark meaningful dialogue. From ground-breaking music videos to candid interviews, the group remains unapologetically vocal about issues affecting the community.
A.B. Original is the collaboration between artist, activist and author Briggs and MC and multi-ARIA Award-winning producer Trials. Indigenous artists from Yorta Yorta and Ngarrindjeri country respectively, A.B. Original are known for their fearless address of racial, societal and systemic injustice. Their purpose is to stand, call out and challenge the status quo of Australia, and provide truth-telling through First Nations’ perspectives on history, society and the Australian national narrative.
This mighty union of Long Island’s finest and A.B. Original will touch down in October.