Archie Roach was born on January 8, 1956 in Australia. His early years were marked by tragedy and hardship, as he was taken from his family and placed in orphanages by the Australian government. Despite the challenges he faced, Roach found solace in music from a young age, and it would ultimately become his lifeline.
Roach's career began to take off in the 1990s, when he released his debut album, Charcoal Lane. The album featured the song "Took the Children Away," a poignant and powerful ballad that highlighted the plight of Indigenous Australian children who had been forcibly removed from their families. The song earned Roach international acclaim and a prestigious International Human Rights Award.
Over the years, Roach continued to release music that resonated with audiences around the world. His soulful voice and raw lyrics captured the struggles and triumphs of his own life, as well as the experiences of other Indigenous Australians.
Roach was married to fellow musician Ruby Hunter, who passed away in February 2010. The couple's relationship was a source of strength and inspiration for Roach, and Hunter's influence can be heard in his music.
Roach's impact on the music industry and the Indigenous Australian community cannot be understated. He was a trailblazer and a voice for the voiceless, speaking out against injustice and advocating for reconciliation and healing. In 2013, he was honored with the Deadly Award for Lifetime Contribution to Healing the Stolen Generations, recognizing his tireless efforts to bring awareness to the plight of Indigenous Australians.
Roach's music continues to inspire and uplift listeners, with his latest album, The Songs of Charcoal Lane, released in 2020. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, Roach remains a beacon of hope and resilience for Indigenous Australians and music lovers around the world.
Throughout his career, Roach released a total of 10 solo albums, each showcasing his unique talent and unwavering commitment to his craft. He toured extensively, sharing his music and message with audiences far and wide, and had the honor of opening for artists like Billy Bragg.
Archie Roach's work stands as a testament to the power of music to heal, unify, and uplift. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations and remind us of the importance of speaking out against injustice and standing up for what is right.