Over a celebrated career, Emma Donovan has enchanted audiences with her mesmerising voice and commanding stage presence. At Sydney Festival, she brings Take Me to the River to life – a tribute to the timeless soul classics that shaped her music and scored the memories of an entire generation.   

A proud Gumbaynggirr and Noongar woman, Donovan began her musical journey at the age of seven, performing with her family’s band, The Donovans. She later co-founded the Indigenous trio Stiff Gins and recorded multiple albums with soul collective The Putbacks, while also carving her own path as a solo artist.    

From soaring anthems to tender ballads, this night is a powerful tribute to the soul music that continues to flow through generations. Don’t just follow Emma to the river, dive in as the vocal powerhouse reimagines enduring songs made famous by legendary Black American artists Al Green, Aretha Franklin and Ann Peebles, infusing them with her own spirit and story. 

“One of those voices that stops you in your tracks – soulful, powerful and deeply moving.”

ROLLING STONE AUSTRALIA

“The always-outstanding Emma Donovan delivers every single syllable with emotional heft and the utmost care.”

THE MUSIC

Music Music – seated First Nations / Blak Out

Emma Donovan

Australia

Emma Donovan is a celebrated Gumbaynggirr and Yamatji singer and songwriter, renowned for her powerful voice and fearless storytelling. She first emerged as a teenager with Stiff Gins before joining The Black Arm Band and fronting acclaimed soul outfit The Putbacks. With albums Dawn and Crossover, Donovan cemented herself as one of Australia’s most vital artists, blending gospel, country, and soul with her cultural roots. She has graced major stages including WOMADelaide, Bluesfest, and the Sydney Opera House, and was inducted into the NIMAs Hall of Fame with her family band The Donovans. In 2025 she unveiled Take Me to the River - a joyous, soul-stirring work that captures her at the height of her powers.

Recommended for all ages.