We caught up with Ziggy to talk activism in rap ahead of the WA State Election

Words by Jackson Lavell-Lee.

Ziggy Fatnowna is a hip hop artist, writer, pre-medical student and political activist running for government with The Greens for the North Metropolitan region at the upcoming WA State Election. Ziggy is a strong believer in the power of music in activism, and “King Kunta number two” is dedicating his life to smashing stereotypes, making has made promising trap rap with political motives such as Black Face and White Lies. His three-track Black Thoughts EP has been met with critical acclaim and support from musicians and activists alike within the Australian music scene.

“The pulse of a song can break down the walls of any prejudice. Music is my passion and it frees me as I can get out what I’m feeling rather than keeping it inside and letting it become toxic,” he says.

His style of boom bap, golden era hip hop paired excellently with new age production on the album with producer JCAL to deliver contemplative, avant-garde, powerful and futuristic songs. Like idols from the 80s and 90s such as 2pac, Public Enemy and NWA, Ziggy believes he is “stepping on people’s toes” to challenge their ideas of racism and white privilege.

“I think this is why music is so powerful, because people really relate to authenticity and that is why I always just write my experience, that’s all I can give you, nothing more, nothing less,” he tells.

Some of his most controversial lyrics from White Lies include, “Australia loves Kendrick but when I talk about the same shit people get defensive” and “white facts got you blind”. Ziggy encourages everyone to come down to a block party on Sunday the fifth of March for a chance to meet the candidates and "do more partying than politics".

“I am really excited about playing The Greens Block Party, with my band The Lesser Group of Strangers, as I think it’s really important to connect with people, to show that we stand in solidarity.”

Catch Ziggy playing this Sunday at the Rosemount for the Greens Block Party, more info/details HERE.