Thelma Plum: Back and Better Than Ever

Thelma Plum dropped her new single Backseat Of My Mind in May to much acclaim – her first original music since 2019’s era-defining, ARIA-winning album, Better In Blak. Threaded with purposeful, reflective lyrics – “As I look in the rear-view mirror, I leave it behind in the backseat of my mind” – the new track sees the Gamilaraay singer-songwriter venture into the future, carried by her captivating, emotive vocals.

“I’ve spent a lot of time in vans, although not recently, lol, and I really wanted to write a nostalgic-feeling ‘driving’ song, which I hope we nailed!” says Thelma. “It’s been so fun to play live!”

Thelma played the track to excited audiences as part of VIVID Live in Sydney, where she was joined by Paul Kelly for a string of performances at the Opera House. Furthering her exciting live schedule, Thelma will support Vance Joy nationally throughout October, appearing in Darwin, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart and Melbourne.

Thelma’s acclaimed debut album Better In Blak – a storied record of culture, heritage, love and pain – became one of the most successful albums of the year with seven ARIA nominations and a win, as well as spawning the ARIA Gold-certified single, Not Angry Anymore, and three Platinum singles: Better In Blak, Homecoming Queen, and Clumsy Love. The title track landed in the top 10 of the Triple J Hottest 100, the highest ever result for an Indigenous artist at the time, and won the prestigious Vanda and Young ‘Song of the Year’ award.

While Backseat Of My Mind marks Thelma’s first new original music since the album, the beloved creative has far from receded from the public eye. Thelma and her music have been involved in high-profile campaigns for White Shirt Day and for Netflix’s Back To The Outback animated feature film, starring Tim Minchin and Eric Bana.

With plenty more on the horizon, Thelma is looking forward to you buckling up and joining her for the ride!

Written by JACK BAILEY

Photography GEORGIA WALLACE