Born: 1943 (circa), Australia
Died: NA
Country most active: Australia
Also known as: Olive Knight
The following is excerpted from Infinite Women founder Allison Tyra’s book The View from the Hill: Women Who Made Their Mark After 40.
On the other side of the world, Walmatjarri elder, community activist, and blues and gospel singer-songwriter Kankawa Nagarra was 80 when she won the Soundmerch Australian Music Prize in 2024 for her debut album, Wirlmarni. The $50,000 prize is considered the country’s most prestigious music award. Nagarra bought her first guitar at age 40. A member of the Stolen Generation, she had been exposed to gospel music as a child at a mission school after having been taken from her parents and community. Later, she embraced country music and rock ‘n’ roll before discovering the blues. Wirlmarni was selected from 600 albums, many from long-established artists. “Coming from the remote community of Wangkatjungka which in the past has been shown in a negative light with the focus on the issues and problems. People don’t often get to see the beautiful and positive aspects of my home and I know this award brings much pride to the people of Wangkatjungka, especially to the school and all the children who I hope to be a role model for,” Nagarra declared. “I dedicate this award to all my little Greats with a special mention to Tykrira Wilson who stands with me on the cover of the album. I love them all very much. They are my future ancestors.”