JOEL TURNER CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF HIS #1 ARIA SINGLE, “THESE KIDS” WITH SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY REMIX FEATURING DUBLT
Back in 2004, Joel Turner stunned the music world with his powerful debut single, These Kids, a track that resonated with an entire generation and addressed the harsh realities of young struggles. Now, two decades later, the ARIA chart-topping, double-platinum single is being reimagined for a new era. The These Kids 20th Anniversary Remix, featuring a fresh beat by Kiwi DJ Jonathan Schnell and a bold new rap from DubLT, releases today through Dream Dealers, the independent label helmed by Australian music legend Mark Holden.
These Kids first took Australia by storm with its raw, unflinching look at the issues faced by the young and disadvantaged — struggles that, sadly, remain just as relevant in 2024. With lyrics like, “Gotta try something new ’cause it’s been 20 years and it’s clear, there’s been hardly any progress,” the new remix delivers a powerful message against the backdrop of today’s youth crime crisis often dominating national headlines.
Turner, whose career launched as a beatboxing sensation discovered in the 2003 Australian Idol audition line, went on to become a multi-faceted musician, hit producer, and world beatboxing champion. His debut album Joel Turner and the Modern Day Poets earned critical acclaim and three ARIA Award nominations, cementing his place in Australia’s music history.
Despite the passage of time, These Kids remains a powerful anthem of resilience, and the updated remix is set to captivate both long-time fans and a new generation alike. “This remix brings the message full circle,” says Turner. “The same struggles are still out there, and the fight continues.”
Mark Holden, who first signed Joel to Dream Dealers in 2004, believes the track’s longevity speaks to Turner’s unique voice in Australian music. “These Kids was a breakthrough back then, and 20 years on, it’s more important than ever. Joel’s voice and vision continue to resonate deeply,” Holden remarked.
Turner’s journey, from humble beginnings in Brisbane’s working-class suburb of Acacia Ridge to world recognition as a beatbox champion and chart-topping artist, has been one of grit, determination, and authenticity. This anniversary release not only celebrates the impact These Kids has had over the past two decades but also serves as a call to action for the next generation to continue pushing for change.