Who is Rhyan Clapham?
I’m Rhyan Clapham, I go by DOBBY – a drummer rapper (Drapper). I’m a proud Filipino and Aboriginal musician; my family is from Brewarrina on Ngemba land, and I’m a member of the Murrawarri Republic in Weilmoringle, NSW.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I love what I’m doing now, but I definitely am striving towards touring with a full band including some tasty horns as part of my routine!
Who inspires you and why?
There are so many people that I draw inspiration from! Bob Dylan, Kendrick Lamar, Janelle Monae, Eminem, Beyonce are just a few…
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m trying to keep speaking as much truth, love and positivity as I can!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Not sure if I have a fave holiday destination yet, but coming back to Brewarrina I always feel refreshed and reconnected!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
There’s quite a few favourite spots I have, I usually take friends from overseas straight to Coogee or Maroubra beaches!
What are you currently reading?
Bruce Pascoe’s Dark Emu – a book I’ve been meaning to read for a few years now! Indigenous Australian agricultural and aquacultural practices and traditions are the key to respectful cultivation of the land!
What are you currently listening to?
I’m listening to Rapsody’s album Eve, the new Tame Impala singles, and re-listening to Kendrick Lamar’s album DAMN!
Happiness is?
Family, road trips to Brewarrina, chords strumming in the sun, conversations layered over music in the background, stories with a good rhythm to it, the feeling of release after tension, learning and learning again, reaping the rewards of your efforts, silence.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m not sure, but I’m really excited about it!
Rhyan (Dobby) performs as part of Dance Rites at the Sydney Opera House on Saturday 23 November 2019. For more information, visit: www.sydneyoperahouse.com for details.
Image: Rhyan Clapham (Dobby) – photo by Kurt Petersen Photography