Opening the show for Xavier is Byron Bay singer, ukulele strummer and drummer Bobby Alu.

Xavier Rudd’s relentless upward arc is among the most astounding success stories of our time, so we’re very excited he will play Twilight at Taronga in 2023.

Looking back over Xavier Rudd’s stunning career, one could easily ask what is possibly left to achieve. Already one of Australian music’s all-time greats, he has touched people’s lives worldwide. 

He has earned accolades of every kind, Gold and Platinum certification, multiple ARIA nominations and legions of fans who love him with an inextinguishable passion. Yet, with each new release, Xavier Rudd continues to surpass expectation and produce his finest work to date.

Beginning his career with 2002’s definitive ‘To Let’, Xavier Rudd put his message out into the world and was answered immediately. Fans from all over the globe were drawn to the distinctly Australian-looking musician, activist and surfer. 

It was the start of a journey that would span over 20 years (and counting); taking Xavier to almost every continent on the planet where he has connected with people from all cultures and walks of life. There are no borders that apply to Xavier Rudd’s music.

Countless acts have come and gone like fireworks as his campfire steadily grows: a beacon to the kind of music fan that seeks sustenance in a fast-food world.

Opening the show for Xavier is Byron Bay singer, ukulele strummer and drummer Bobby Alu.

Bobby’s world-class percussion skills saw him tour internationally with Xavier for five years.

Expect a fresh, simple sound with tastes of Polynesian ukulele, Pacific beats, catchy songs, thoughtful harmony and powerful log drumming on a bed of slick style. 

Amidst smooth harmonies, rhythms inspired by a strong family lineage of Polynesian performance, and unassuming grooves that work a gradual, smile-inducing high through even a casual listener, Bobby Alu tunes have a way of sneaking into the subconscious and taking up residence. Every now and then, one will pop up as a toe-tapping reminder to take it slow, enjoy the ride. 

Though it’s not all palm trees and daydreams – there’s a robust energy in Bobby’s mastery of traditional Samoan log drums, and a vitality to his songwriting that nods to world, roots and pop intelligence.