triple j’s Like A Version has seen its fair share of iconic moments over the years – but this one? Straight-up history-making. Rising Noongar Wongi artist INKABEE has officially become the youngest artist ever to step into the studio, taking on the beloved segment at just 13 years old.
Backed by a full band for the very first time, INKABEE put a soulful, contemporary spin on Black Eyed Peas’ early-2000s anthem Where Is The Love?, blending smooth R&B textures with sharp, confident bars. It’s a track that clearly means something to him too, and that sense of purpose cuts through every moment of the performance, which capped off a stacked March itinerary that saw triple j double the LAV love across the month.
Inkabee covers Black Eyed Peas’ ‘Where Is The Love?’ for Like A Version
“Me and my mum were driving in the car and we already had our Like A Version song picked out,” the talented teen told the j’s.
“But we were just listening to songs and ‘Where Is The Love?’ came on. We were listening and I just thought it’s the most perfect song for how the world is right now.”
The result was seriously impressive debut that balances technical skill with heart, as INKABEE seamlessly moves between melody and flow before lifting the final chorus into full goosebump territory. It’s a powerful statement from an artist who’s already making waves, and doing it with a clear mission: putting his mob, his culture and Indigenous excellence firmly on the map.
With his debut mixtape on the way (dropping on his 14th birthday, no less), plus a growing catalogue of originals like Vibez, this feels like the beginning of something big.
Watch INKABEE make Like A Version history in the viddy up above.
Further Reading
triple j Doubles Like A Version For March: Turnstile, The Veronicas + More Locked In
Dominic Fike Just Broke Like A Version History With A 26-Second South Park Cover
Watch The Amity Affliction Take On Turnstile For Their First Ever ‘Like A Version’
