Tiddas (band) facts for kids

Tiddas was an all-female folk music group from Victoria, Australia. The word "Tiddas" means "sisters" in the Koori language. The group was known for their beautiful harmonies and powerful songs. They sang about life, their culture, and important issues. Tiddas became very popular in Australia and even toured internationally.

The Story of Tiddas

How the Group Started

In 1990, three talented women, Amy Saunders, Lou Bennett, and Sally Dastey, started singing together. They began as backing singers for an Aboriginal band called Djaambi. Their first big performance was at a special event for women artists in Richmond, Victoria. People loved their performance! After this, Ruby Hunter gave them the name Tiddas, meaning "sisters."

After singing together for over a year, a radio host named Paul Petran helped Tiddas record their first collection of songs. This was an EP (a shorter album) called Inside My Kitchen. It came out in 1992. This EP was nominated for two awards at the ARIA Music Awards of 1993, including 'Best New Talent'.

Growing Success and Albums

Tiddas quickly became a favorite live band. They toured with famous groups like Sweet Honey in the Rock and Midnight Oil. For their first full album, Sing About Life, released in 1993, they added a didgeridoo player, Tim "Froggie" Holtze. This album was a big hit! It reached number 36 on the Australian music charts and sold over 35,000 copies. It also won 'Best Indigenous Record' at the ARIA Music Awards of 1994. Tiddas then toured all over Australia and the world, performing at many WOMAD concerts.

Their second album, Tiddas, came out in 1996. It reached number 26 on the Australian charts. One of the songs, "Ignorance is Bliss", was inspired by a discussion with Bob Geldof during a tour.

Later Years and Farewell

In 1998, Tiddas sang on a song called "Yil Lull" with other artists. Their third album, Lethal By the Kilo, was released in 1998. In 1999, they recorded a live album called Show Us Ya Tiddas.

In May 2000, Tiddas announced they would be breaking up. They went on a national tour to say goodbye to their fans. In 2000, Tiddas received a Deadly Award for their 'Outstanding Contribution to Aboriginal Music'.

Reunion and Hall of Fame

In 2018, the three members of Tiddas reunited for a special tour. This tour celebrated the release of Archie Roach's album, Dancing with My Spirit.

In August 2019, Tiddas was honored by being inducted into the National Indigenous Music Awards Hall of Fame. This recognized their amazing contribution to music.

Awards and Recognitions

ARIA Awards

The ARIA Music Awards are big annual awards in Australia. They celebrate the best in Australian music. Tiddas has won one ARIA Award from six nominations.

Australian Women in Music Awards

These awards celebrate amazing women in the Australian music industry. They recognize those who have made important and lasting contributions.

Deadly Awards

The Deadly Awards celebrated the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in music, sport, and entertainment. They ran from 1996 to 2013.

National Indigenous Music Awards

The National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMA) recognize great achievements in the Northern Territory music industry.

Group Members

• Sally Dastey
• Amy Saunders
• Lou Bennett

Music Released

Studio Albums

Live Albums

Extended Plays (EPs)

Singles