The Herd: Australian Hip Hop & Electronic Pioneers

The Herd is a dynamic Australian hip hop and electronic music collective known for its politically charged lyrics and genre-blending sound. Formed in Sydney, the group achieved significant success with their 2003 album 'An Elefant Never Forgets', which debuted in the ARIA Top 20 and was certified gold.

Early career

The Herd formed in 2001 as an offshoot of the Elefant Traks record label, a Sydney-based independent collective. The original lineup featured a rotating cast of MCs and producers including Ozi Batla, Urthboy, and Traksewt, creating a sound that fused live instrumentation with electronic beats and sharp social commentary.

Breakthrough

The collective's breakthrough came in 2003 with their second studio album, 'An Elefant Never Forgets'. Released on their own Elefant Traks label, the album peaked at number 18 on the ARIA Albums Chart and was later certified gold, selling over 35,000 copies. Its success cemented the label and the group as major forces in the Australian independent music scene.

Key tracks

77% — This 2003 single became an anthem for political dissent in Australia, directly criticizing then-Prime Minister John Howard.

The Sum of It All — A key track from their gold-certified album showcasing their signature blend of live bass, horns, and multiple vocalists.

I Was Only 19 — The Herd's 2005 cover of the Redgum classic brought the anti-war song to a new generation and won the ARIA Award for Best Independent Release.

2020 — Released in 2008, this single demonstrated their evolving production and continued relevance in political discourse.

Following their breakthrough, The Herd continued to release critically acclaimed albums like 'The Sun Never Sets' (2008) and 'Future Shade' (2011), each refining their mix of hip hop, rock, and electronica. Their members pursued successful solo projects under the Elefant Traks banner, further expanding the collective's influence. The group has maintained a loyal following through energetic live performances and a commitment to independent artistry, though they have been less active as a full unit in recent years.

Fans of The Herd's socially conscious lyrics and eclectic Australian sound often appreciate the work of similar artists. The Hilltop Hoods share a commitment to sophisticated production and helped popularize hip hop nationally. Urthboy, a core Herd member, continues a similar solo style with narrative-driven songs. Bliss N Eso offer another perspective on Australian hip hop with anthemic choruses and high-energy beats. Hermitude, also from the Elefant Traks family, explores the electronic and instrumental side of the collective's sound.

The music of The Herd maintains regular rotation on a variety of alternative radio stations and online radio streams, particularly those focusing on independent Australian music, hip hop, and electronic genres. Their classic hits and album tracks are staples on stations dedicated to showcasing homegrown talent and politically engaged songwriting.

Listeners can discover the influential catalog of The Herd through the dedicated Australian hip hop and alternative radio stations featured on our website. Tune in via onairium.com to hear their genre-defining tracks as part of our curated music programming.