David Bindi Hudson, an Ewamian (oo-rah-min) and Western Yalanji Aboriginal artist, has led a phenomenal life. He has spent over 35 years in the arts. He stands as an internationally recognized didgeridoo player who has toured with Yanni, a famous Greek musician. During that time, he played at the Taj Mahal as well as traveled across Europe and North America. As well, he acted in the film “The Island of Dr. Moreau,” where he met Marlon Brando. For Hudson, it was one of those “pinch me” moments.
EARLY YEARS
At about five years old, his family and elders gathered to give David his Aboriginal name. As they looked deep into his eyes, they reflected back to him, “Bindi”. The name means “forward vision” or “looking forward” in their Aboriginal language. As opportunities arose throughout his career, this name guided him. With an open mind and a positive outlook, his response was most often “yes”, always steering him forward.
Growing up in a creative family with the influences of siblings, he learned to play a variety of instruments. He seemed adept at each one he picked up, including the clarinet. In this video, Hudson talks about how his clarinet helped him earn respect in Japan.
ADULTHOOD
Many experiences shone their light on Hudson, he recognized a myriad of dimensions of his place in the world. Based on this, he coined a term for his occupation as an “edutainer”. He knew early on his gift of entertainment mixed with his ability to educate. This was due in part to his mother’s demand that her son have a formal and practical career option outside of the arts. This led him to teacher’s college.
After meeting his wife, the two found themselves in California. Hudson was called to share his Didgeridoo style with America in the early 80s. As time moved on, he realized his musical acumen and his culture were a curiosity for the world. This recognition brought him to Europe, touring the Tzapukai Dance Troupe, which he and his wife, plus four others, founded.
LIFE REVELATIONS
All in all, every forward movement has led to a fuller picture of where he sees the world. Now, he spends a portion of his time in his local community. It’s his “duty of care” (DOC) to educate people in the importance of Indigenous knowledge and awareness. However, when asked how non-Indigenous/non-Aboriginal people can best align themselves with his culture, he says: “Look…we all bleed red. We all come from one race. That’s the human race.”
By Theresa K. Howell