Let Love Rule: Songlines, Storytelling, and Culture with David Arden

In this beautiful episode, Uncle David Arden a Kokatha and Gunditjmara songman, celebrated musician, and cultural leader joins host Matthew for a heartfelt yarn that flows through identity, resilience, and the healing power of music.

From his early days in Fitzroy and Collingwood to performing alongside legends like Archie Roach, Ruby Hunter, and Paul Kelly, Uncle David shares how music became his teacher, his medicine, and his way of reconnecting to culture after the deep wounds of the Stolen Generations. Through stories of community cabarets that kept culture alive, the powerful protest songs that awakened his identity, and his lifelong collaborations, he reveals how each song carries a piece of ancestral strength, a way to “re-earth” culture through sound and story.

Uncle David speaks about his new album, Meerta: The Ballad of James Arden, honouring his great-grandfather and the generations who fought for freedom, dignity, and identity.

If you’d like to learn more about Uncle David’s work visit: https://www.davidaarden.com/

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Thanks for listening, peace and love to you — and until the next one, take care.

OSS!

Disclaimer: This podcast shares personal views and lived experiences only, it’s not legal, financial, or medical advice.

If you are triggered by any content discussed in this episode and need support, please reach out to the following resources:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN: 13 92 76

We acknowledge the Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters, and communities. We pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, and to Elders past, present and future.