MUSIC NEWS: First Sounds Volume 14 Submissions Open

First Sounds showcases Volume 13 artists
+ Submissions Now Open for Volume 14

The Community Broadcasting Association of Australia (CBAA) and Gadigal Information Service / Koori Radio (GIS) are proud to announce the continuation of their vital partnership on First Sounds, with submissions now open until Thursday 16 April, for Volume 14 of the specially curated music compilation series featuring exciting new music from independent First Nations musicians.

Released as curated CD and digital compilations via amrap.org.au, First Sounds showcases contemporary First Nations music spanning alt-pop, country, soul, hip-hop, rock, Blaktronica and acoustic storytelling grounded in culture, language, community and lived experience. The powerful release of First Sounds Volume 13 highlighted an extraordinary cross-section of contemporary First Nations artists from across the continent. Volume 13, released in February, featured Perth-based Minang Noongar performer Ricky Neil Jr, Naarm singer-songwriter Naomi Diane, Kimberley-born artist ICONYX, Magandjin-based GLVES, cultural leader Jayden Kitchener-Waters, Sydney psych-indie outfit Krystal Rivvers led by Wurundjeri/Boon Wurrung frontman Earl Weir, Cherratta Road, the project of Ngarluma/Banjima artist Tyson Mowarin, rising Moree country artist Kyla Belle, and the Family Shoveller Band from Bidyadanga.

With more than 5.39 million weekly listeners, community radio remains one of the most powerful and accessible platforms for discovering new Australian music. First Sounds plays a crucial role in supporting First Nations artists at a time when opportunities for emerging musicians continue to decline. The initiative creates meaningful pathways to national airplay, new audiences and tangible industry outcomes.

Many participating artists achieve their first-ever radio airplay through First Sounds, with several going on to secure significant chart success. Alumni, including BADASSMUTHA and Tha Deadly Boyz (Volumes 11 and 12), have consistently landed top 10 positions in AMRAP’s weekly charts, demonstrating the real-world impact of community radio support. The program continues to strengthen community radio’s role as a launchpad for First Nations talent and remains committed to ensuring artists are heard, recognised and celebrated nationwide.

Industry curators include Lance Cheney (Koori Radio / Kameygal Studio), Sunny Luwe (artist), Kaleena Smith (MusicNSW), and Jack Hickey (Awesome Black). Hickey joins the curation panel as a Gamilaraay musician and Production Coordinator at Awesome Black, has performed at major festivals and events, including Parrtjima Festival, Badu Gili at the Sydney Opera House, VIVID Sydney, SXSW, WOMADelaide and Sydney Festival.

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

Submissions for First Sounds Volume 14 are now open
Deadline: 11.59 pm (AEST), Thursday 16 April 2026
 Submit your music via: firstsounds.amrap.org.au