Treaty 1991
121 BPM - F# Minor
#Beat
Songwriters: Original songwriters: Mandawuy Yunupingu, Peter Garrett, Paul Kelly. Producers: David Briggs, Yothu Yindi.
Treaty image
Full mix
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Drums
Acoustic Drum Kit
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Drums
Percussion
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Bass
Electric Bass
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Guitar
Electric Guitar Left
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Guitar
Electric Guitar Right
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Guitar
Lead Electric Guitar
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Keys
Piano
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Keys
Organ
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Keys
Didgeridoo
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Vocals
Backing Vocal
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Other
Lead Vocal

“Treaty” is a landmark song by Yothu Yindi and one of the most significant recordings in Australian music history. Blending Indigenous Yolŋu musical elements with contemporary rock and dance rhythms, the song addresses the ongoing demand for a formal treaty between the Australian government and Aboriginal peoples. Sung partly in Yolŋu Matha and English, “Treaty” combines political urgency with an infectious groove, making its message accessible to a wide audience. The track gained international recognition after being remixed into a dance version that reached the Australian charts, helping bring Indigenous rights into mainstream popular culture. “Treaty” remains a powerful symbol of cultural pride, reconciliation, and music as a vehicle for social change.