LION - 'Who Are You Protecting?' Single Launch/Mutual Aid Fundraiser

Corrupt political systems and atrocities around the world force us to ask our leaders one simple, yet heartbreaking question: Who Are You Protecting?

To celebrate the release of their latest single ’Who Are You Protecting?’, LION is hosting a joint single launch and mutual aid fundraiser at Bell City, in Preston. Supported by show-stopping musicians such as Layesh and Michael Kay, this is a celebration of Naarm talent with political consciousness at the forefront, with more acts still to be announced.

Mutual aid is one of the most effective acts of resistance we can practice, quite literally redistributing money to the people we’re supposed to be protecting. After production costs are covered, all proceeds will be split between 4 mutual aid campaigns: Crime Scene Australia, Focus Congo, Bakri’s Mutual Aid Fund for Sudan, and the Natna’s Children Foundation (Tigray).

LION is a queer Ethiopian-Australian electropop artist from Naarm (Melbourne) in so-called “Australia”. They’re a force—rooted in resistance, blooming in power. Their music blends pulsing rhythms, punchy rap, and a touch of hyperpop; a sonic palette evoking a lion’s roar.

LION released their debut EP ‘RECLAMATION’ to critical acclaim, racking up more than 200,000 streams, and reaching #35 on the Australian iTunes Dance Albums Chart. Also known for their unstoppable stage presence, LION has headlined Naarm's biggest LGBTQIA+ event, Midsumma Carnival in 2024, performed at Victoria's Pride 2024, and performed on the main stage at Mardi Gras Fair Day 2025.

TIERED TIX

Unwaged - For those of y'all who aren't working full-time or experiencing financial hardship <3 - $20 + bf

Waged - $30 + bf

A Little More - For those who have a little more to spare - $40 + bf

Donation - If you can't attend but would still like to donate, please do so here! - $any amount

Bell City is unfortunately not an accessible venue.

Mob and TWOC please DM @thisislionofficial on Instagram to be put on the door, and if you’re struggling financially but still want to come, we’ll sort you out, please also DM @thisislionofficial on Instagram.

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and the Bunurong peoples of the Kulin Nation, the true owners of the land that we live and operate on. We would like to pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. LAND BACK! ALWAYS WAS ALWAYS WILL BE!