MUSIC NEWS: AMRAP Announce First Sounds Volume 13 + 14 Submissions

Following the success of First Sounds Volumes 11 and 12, the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) and Gadigal Information Service / Koori Radio (GIS) are excited to announce the continuation of their vital partnership with First Sounds, with submissions open for Volumes 13 and 14 from Monday 15 September to Monday 13 October at firstsounds.amrap.org.au.

Since 2020, the First Sounds music compilations have provided nationwide exposure for First Nations musicians, including alumni Dobby, Kee’Ahn, J-Milla, Barkaa, Andrew Gurruwirri Band, Mulga Bore Hard Rock, Nidala and others. The compilations continue to amplify First Nations voices, songs, and stories, reaching community radio listeners across the country. Through bold and vibrant songs, First Sounds powerfully highlights the strength and unity foundational to First Nations artists, uniquely blending tradition and innovation.

First Sounds, released in the first half of 2025, has made a significant impact, providing crucial airplay and the first airplay for many First Nations artists. Volumes 11 and 12, featuring artists such as Yung Milla, Charlie Needs Braces, Grace Alexandra, Mia Lovelock, Tha Deadly Boyz, and Yung Maynie, collectively garnered over 4,000 plays across more than 250 community radio stations taking part. First Sounds is dedicated to ensuring First Nations music of all genres is heard in urban centres, remote regions, and local communities.

With over 150 First Nations artists having appeared on First Sounds, the initiative has opened doors to showcase opportunities, mentorship programs, and documentary features. Notably, BADASSMUTHA, an artist from First Sounds Volume 12, was selected as a showcasing artist for BIGSOUND 2025.  

"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." - BADASSMUTHA

First Sounds Volumes 13 and 14 will be released in the first half of 2026 via amrap.org.au, the CBAA's initiative that promotes new Australian music to radio. Selections for these volumes will be made by a panel of First Nations industry figures, including previous First Sounds artists Sunny Luwe and Lance Cheney (who also manages Koori Radio’s Kameygal studio), Kaleena Smith (First Nations Development Coordinator, Music NSW, and member of Stiff Gins), and Travis De Vries (Director, Awesome Black).

"I can say firsthand that opportunity changed everything. I received national airplay, connected with new audiences, and picked up gigs I wouldn’t have had access to otherwise. I know what kind of ripple effect First Sounds can have for emerging First Nations artists." - Lance Cheney, aka Chillcheney and manager of Kameygal studio, Koori Radio.

Submissions for First Sounds Volumes 13 and 14 are now open from Monday, 15 September, and close on Monday, 13 October 2025.

Independent First Nations musicians are invited to submit radio-ready music for consideration.

Submit your music via: firstsounds.amrap.org.au

About the Partners:
The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) is the peak body for community broadcasting in Australia, representing over 400 not-for-profit radio and television stations, and supporting community media through advocacy, training, and services such as AMRAP.

Gadigal Information Service / Koori Radio (GIS) has been broadcasting to Sydney's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities since 1993, providing a platform for Indigenous voices, music, and stories.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.