“This song pretty much paints a picture of a soul seeking freedom and unburdening herself from societal constraints.”
Emily Wurramara (Credit: Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore)
Emily Wurramara has returned with her first new single since 2022, the triumphant Magic Woman Dancing.
In a press release, the artist and Warnindhilyagwa woman explained that the song “pretty much paints a picture of a soul seeking freedom and unburdening herself from societal constraints”. She added: “Through her silence, echoes of her strength and resilience resound. Though this woman has endured unimaginable pain, her outspoken nature and unwavering spirit shine through. People are captivated by her presence, following her every move to catch even a glimpse of her radiance.”
Wurramara went on to highlight the lyric “I must admit, I was a little bit salty”, which she says touches on feelings of “jealousy” and “this bittersweet emotion that arises from witnessing the enchanting magic of this remarkable woman”.
“Despite any feelings of envy,” she continued, “her captivating nature remains undeniable, and I come to terms with that, that this is a reflection of my lived experiences, my environment, my upbringing. This song invites whoever wants to listen to embrace their own uniqueness and find solace in the enchantment of self-discovery. It serves as a reminder that true magic lies within each individual, waiting to be released through the dance of self-expression.”
The track arrives alongside a music video directed by ARIA-winning filmmaker Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore, which was filmed over three days and six locations around Tasmania (lutruwita), and alongside Wurramara features her mother (Angela Wurramara, a lifelong traditional spiritual dancer) and partner (Kai Mason).
Wurramara said of the video: “I'm taking people on a visionary journey, and this woman/person/entity who my friend Gabriel plays starts that journey – I wanted to play a character and not be the main person. I want them to take away some sort of feeling of liberation, some sort of safety in expression, to dance and let go. To sit and take in the scenery we were so blessed to film in. To be in awe, wonder, fascination and then to ask themselves those hard questions. I want to provoke thoughts about the power that comes with accepting yourself.
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“I think the environment [in lutruwita] is absolutely beautiful. I wanted people to see that, why I love it so much down here and why it is so important to protect. This is the third film clip I’ve filmed and I’ve never had such a big crew before, it was a bit surreal – very much a community effort. I also wanted there to be some small references to my cultural identity, as well as me as a person. I wanted to showcase my friend Bindimu's art as well, she made the dress, jewellery and weaved hat my mum is wearing in the film clip.”