The Australia Council wishes to acknowledge the recent passing of Henry Gibson ‘Seaman’ Dan and pay tribute to his commitment and contribution to Australian music and culture.
Seaman Dan was a Torres Strait Island singer and guitarist whose songs, sung in both English and Torres Strait Creole, received numerous accolades. He toured both locally and internationally, helping to build recognition of First Nations arts and culture.
Seaman Dan won the ARIA award for Best World Music twice in 2004 and 2009, and received the Australia Council Red Ochre Award in 2005.
In 2013 Seaman Dan received a Hall of Fame Award at the National Indigenous Music Awards. In 2019 at the age of 89, he received Music Queensland’s Grant McLennan Lifetime Achievement Award.
Australia Council Executive Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts, Lydia Miller said:
“Uncle Seaman Dan will be remembered as an inspiring cultural leader and captivating performer who brought joy to many through his music. His impressive legacy includes contributing to a greater appreciation of First Nations music both at home and abroad. We extend our deepest sympathies to his friends, family and community.”
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