Since launching in 2020, First Sounds has become an essential resource for community broadcasters, providing access to high-quality, radio-ready music from First Nations artists across the country. More than 150 artists have been featured to date, with tracks distributed nationally through the Australian Music Radio Airplay Project (Amrap).
For community radio, First Sounds is more than a music compilation—it’s a way to:
Recent volumes have showcased artists including Yung Milla, Charlie Needs Braces, Grace Alexandra, Waari, Mia Lovelock, Tha Deadly Boyz, Kee’Ahn, Roger Knox and more. Collectively, Volumes 11 and 12 achieved over 4,000 plays across more than 250 stations, demonstrating the appetite for this music and the power of community radio to elevate new voices.
BADASSMUTHA, featured on Volume 12 and later selected to showcase at BIGSOUND 2025, credits the initiative as a turning point:
“Community radio and initiatives such as First Sounds are crucial for First Nations artists, and I am so grateful to continually feel supported by the work that they do to ensure our voices are heard.”
Volume13 will be curated by a panel of respected First Nations industry figures, including previous First Sounds artist Sunny Luwe, Lance Cheney (Chillcheney, and manager of Kameygal Studio, Koori Radio), Kaleena Smith (First Nations Development Coordinator, Music NSW, and member of Stiff Gins), and Travis De Vries (Director, Awesome Black).
What this means for your station
First Sounds continues to provide ready-to-air content that reflects the diversity and creativity of First Nations music. Stations are encouraged to access the compilations when they are released in early 2026 and share them widely with listeners.
First Sounds Volume 12
First Sounds Volume 11
This project is a partnership between GIS/Koori Radio and CBAA, and has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.