Jessie Lloyd, our inaugural Ilan Style Fellow, is a scholar and Torres Strait Islander singer. The research project she is undertaking at AIATSIS builds upon her work on the Ailan Songs Project.
The Ailan Songs Project stands as a vibrant celebration of Torres Strait heritage, blending history, music, and community in a harmonious tribute to the enduring spirit of 'ailan' life. This innovative endeavour delves into the rich tapestry of historical songs from the Torres Strait, presented through the lens of island reggae—a genre that perfectly complements the region's vibrant cultural heritage.
About Jessie
Source: jessielloyd.com
Jessie Lloyd, whose roots trace back to Moa Island, has been deeply involved in preserving, modernising, and composing songs in Western Torres Strait languages. Herself a vocalist, guitarist, bassist and ukulele player, Jessie earned her formal qualifications at Abmusic in Perth, WA in 2002. Heralding from a musical family, her grandfather Albie Geia was the conductor of the Palm Island Brass Band and her father, Joe Geia, is considered a pioneer of contemporary Indigenous music and composer of the Aboriginal National Anthem ‘Yil Lull’.
Unveiling the Ailan Songs
The Torres Strait, historically a bustling trade route between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, holds tales of pearl diving, seafaring adventures, and cultural exchanges. Jessie Lloyd's Ailan Songs Project brings these stories to life, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional 'ailan' songs. These melodies, passed down through generations, encapsulate the essence of Torres Strait history and community life.
Taba Naba music video - Ailan Songs Project. Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4CJ9d4rsUU&t=6s
Collaboration and Cultural Revitalisation
Central to the project is Jessie Lloyd's collaboration with senior Torres Strait songwomen. Together, they have meticulously curated an album featuring 'ailan' songs—folk tunes cherished by families and communities across various Torres Strait islands. These songs not only celebrate cultural resilience but also document the journeys of Torres Strait Islanders to mainland Australia and their enduring contributions to Australian society.
Source: Jessie Lloyd's approach is deeply rooted in cultural responsibility, prioritising the learning and preservation of First Peoples’ languages and musical traditions. Mentorship from esteemed songwomen like Nayama - who she will be collaborating with for the Ilan Style Fellowship - has enriched Jessie's understanding of Torres Strait songcraft, fostering a profound connection to her heritage.
Academic Endeavours and Cultural Preservation
Beyond musical exploration, this is a scholarly pursuit for Jessie Lloyd. It forms a cornerstone of her doctoral thesis, where she explores the intersection of music, language, and cultural identity within the Torres Strait. Her engagement with the AIATSIS archives will not only fuel academic discourse but also ensure the safeguarding of invaluable cultural knowledge for future generations.
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A Testament to Cultural Resilience
Through recording and documenting Meriam songs, Jessie Lloyd not only honours her cultural roots but also amplifies the voices and stories of Torres Strait Islanders. This project is a testament to her dedication to preserving and revitalising Indigenous languages and traditions, propelling her into a role of cultural stewardship and musical innovation
Learn More
Read our Ilan Style Fellowship Announcement to find out more about Jessie's project.
For further insights into Jessie Lloyd and her work on the Ailan Songs Project, visit: ailansongsproject.com
And subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date on her upcoming work as part of the Ilan Style Fellowship.
Proceeds from every Ilan Style purchase go towards the Ilan Style Fellowship, which supports Jessie in continuing her research and documentation of Meriam songs.
