Emily Wurramara

Warnindhilyagwa artist, activist, and songwriter Emily Wurramara is part of a new wave of Indigenous Australian blues and roots musicians who are reclaiming their language and culture and presenting it to the world.

Writing and singing in both English and Anindilyakwa language, her music mixes Pacific-blues, neo-soul, and indie folk with her expressive voice, and ethereal R&B-inspired songs.

Originally from Groote Eylandt and Milyakburra/Bickerton Island, Emily is based in lutruwita (Tasmania), the first Indigenous woman to win Best Adult Contemporary Album at the ARIA Awards in 2024, for her poignant second album NARA. Meaning “nothing” in Anindilyakwa, it references a devastating house fire in which she lost everything. The collection of songs are a deeply personal exploration of identity, resilience, and self-realization to ultimately overcome hardship.

Since her debut Black Smoke EP (2016) and acclaimed album Milyakburra (2018), Emily has captivated audiences with her storytelling, amplifying Indigenous voices and narratives. Emily has shared stages with legends like Midnight Oil and Mavis Staples, she’s also become a vital advocate for mental health, youth empowerment, and environmental justice.

With sold-out tours and festival appearances across Australia, Wurramara is joining us on the West Coast for her festival debut. Expect a performance that inspires and empowers through her music that is both timeless and urgently present.

– DS