First Sounds returns with new wave of First Nations music

Joseph Guenzler Published June 25, 2026 at 4.30am (AWST)

lifestyle

First Sounds Volume 14 brings new First Nations music to a wider audience. (Image: supplied)

First Nations artists from across Australia are being featured in a new national music compilation released through the First Sounds partnership.

First Sounds Volume 14 is available now digitally and on CD, with the compilation presented by the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and Gadigal Information Service/Koori Radio.

The project brings together new music from First Nations artists from Mparntwe, Alice Springs, Far North Queensland, the Kimberley, regional New South Wales, Victoria and beyond.

The compilation was curated by Lance Cheney from Koori Radio/Kameygal Studio, artist Sunny Luwe, Kaleena Smith from MusicNSW and Jack Hickey from Awesome Black.

Karingbal woman and Magandjin-based artist, Faith Kayrooz, described the role community radio had played in sharing her music.

"AMRAP's initiative and work with community radio has allowed my music as an independent, female, First Nations artist to not only receive national radio airplay, but also broaden my fanbase," Ms Kayrooz said.

"The dream of my music and stories reaching wider audiences has been achieved by the hard work of community radios, who seek to support artists like myself."

*Faith Kayrooz features on First Sounds Volume 14 with 'Johnny'. (Image: ABC)*

First Sounds Volume 14 spans hip hop, country, folk, reggae, soul, R&B, cinematic soundscapes and experimental pop.

Featured artists include Alice Kings, an ensemble of Indigenous MCs aged eight to 13, actor and musician Ngali Shaw who performs as 2KTRILLA, hip hop artist Crooked TP, singer-songwriter Faith Kayrooz and country pop singer Millie Mils.

Community radio remains a key platform for First Nations artists to reach new audiences and build sustainable careers.

Walmatjarri and Bunuba artist Kayps said being included in the compilation was meaningful.

"Community radio is such an integral part of building a foundation for all First Nations artists, so I feel really privileged to be included," Kayps said.

Far North Queensland artist Djawarray said the project helped take First Nations stories, culture and sound to new audiences.

"Projects like this and community radio help carry our stories, culture, and sound to new audiences while keeping our voices strong," Djawarray said.

First Sounds Volume 14 is out now.