Orelia teen Ethan Eggington becomes youngest artist to take on triple j’s Like A Version

Gilmore College Year 9 student Ethan Eggington, better known as Noongar Wongi rapper Inkabee, made history last month when he became the youngest artist featured on triple j’s popular segment Like A Version.

The Orelia-based 13-year-old was supported by a full band for the first time, performing his song Vibez and covering the Black Eyed Peas’ iconic 2003 hit Where is the Love?.

Ethan said he was beyond proud of his achievement.

“Being the youngest person ever on triple j’s Like A Version is a crazy accomplishment,” he said.

“Knowing I’m on the same stage as my idols, it’s just unreal.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to be up there. It’s something a kid doesn’t usually get to experience.”

Ethan said he hoped to inspire his peers at school to follow their passions and work hard to achieve their dreams.

“I hope to inspire other young mob to chase their dreams by keeping a strong work ethic,” he said.

“Getting on Like A Version was crazy hard, took serious dedication.

“Even if it’s not music, it could be arts, sports, anything: just stay dedicated if you really enjoy it.

“You never know how far you’re gonna go. I never thought I’d get this far, doing Like A Version. Stay dedicated, stay strong and solid, and you’ll get there one day.”

Ethan credits the Follow the Dream Program, which runs in partnership with the Polly Farmer Foundation, for helping him stay on top of his studies.

“Dave Smith, the program co-ordinator, sends me work, and that keeps me up to date with all my schoolwork while I’m away,” he said.

The young rapper said his next focus was to drop a mixtape, set to be released on his 14th birthday later this month.

“It’s kind of like a scrapbook of my life, with all my music, unreleased and released, telling my story,” he said.

“That’s coming, plus lots of shows and travelling everywhere. This year’s been very big so far, and it’s getting bigger and bigger.”

Inkabee’s Like A Version appearance comes after he was named triple j Unearthed High Indigenous Initiative Champ in 2023.

He also featured on America’s Got Talent Season 19 in 2024 with his dad, fellow rapper Flewnt, where they made it to the competition show’s quarter-finals.