Kankawa Nagarra wins 20th Soundmerch Australian Music Award for 'Wirlarni'

Kankawa Nagarra, the queen of Bandaral Ngadu and a Walmatjarri elder, was declared the winner of 20th Australian Music Awards Soundmerch (AMP) for her debut album Virlmarni.

The acclaim underscores the album's cultural depth and emotional appeal, combining Aboriginal blues, country and gospel with Nagara's powerful storytelling.

The album title, Virlmarnimeaning 'disappearing', it reflects themes of loss, resilience and cultural preservation. Recorded on her ancestral lands, it features natural community sounds and raw compositions, including the stirring title track, a duet with Archer.

In her acceptance speech, Nagarra expressed pride in her achievement and the impact it will have on her community in Wangkatjungka, particularly the school and the children she hopes to inspire as a role model. She dedicated the award to her “future ancestors”.

“I am so excited and proud to receive this award. Many thanks to AMP. Coming from the remote community of Wangkatjungka, which in the past has been portrayed in a negative way focusing on issues and problems,” Nagarra said.

“People don't often see the beautiful and positive aspects of my home and I know this award brings great pride to the people of Wangkatjungka, especially the school and all the children I hope to be a role model for. I dedicate this award to all my little Bigs with a special mention to Tykrira Wilson who stands with me on the album cover. I love them all very much. They are my future ancestors.

AMP judges praised Virlmarni for its authenticity and deep connection to Australia's heritage. Nagarra stressed that the production of the album is deeply rooted in ancestral traditions, calling it “thousands of years in the making”.

AMP founder Scott Murphy described the judging process as challenging but ultimately rewarding, calling Virlmarni a worthy winner, saying: “The judges met this morning, face to face, to decide that Kankawa's very deserving Wirlmarni would win the prize. It wasn't a quick and easy decision to make – there were nine great albums, all quite different, all critically acclaimed. Congratulations, Kankawa, on winning our 20th award!”

Inspired by the UK's Mercury Prize, AMP focuses exclusively on artistic merit, recognizing albums that exceed commercial considerations. This year's competition included over 600 eligible albums, which were narrowed down to a shortlist of nine, showcasing the diversity of Australian music. Other nominees were Hiatus Kaiyote, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds and Dobby.

Born in Gooniyandi and Walmatjarri land, Nagarra's music combines traditional sounds with modern influences, delivering songs in Kriol, English and traditional languages. Her work highlights the intersection of nature, culture and music, reinforcing her message of environmental and cultural responsibility.

Kankawa Nagarra joins an illustrious line-up of past AMP winners including Genesis Owusu, Sampa the Great and The Avalanches. Nagarra's win not only cements her place in Australian music history, but also amplifies the voices and stories of her remote community on a global stage.

Listen Virlmarni below.