Joe Geia – Voice of a Generation

Joe Geia is a world-renowned singer, songwriter, and painter – a pioneer who has inspired generations of Indigenous artists and helped pave the way for their recognition and success.

For decades, he has worked with schools to pass on Indigenous heritage, traditions, song, and dance. Music has always been in Joe’s blood: his father, Albie, taught his children to harmonise through a cappella singing, while both his father and grandfather led bands on Palm Island.

But not all memories are joyful. Joe’s mother, along with her sister and brother, were part of the Stolen Generation, sent to Palm Island like thousands of other Queensland children. Though called a “settlement,” Joe recalls its true aim was to erase Indigenous language and even identity.

As a teenager in Brisbane during the land rights marches, Joe realised he could reach people through music. His first song, Yil Lull, explained the meaning of the red, black, and yellow Indigenous flag, becoming an anthem for Aboriginal people across Australia and around the world.

That was the beginning of a remarkable career. Today, Joe continues to share his story – through performance, through art, and through words – giving voice to culture, resilience, and hope for all Australians.