Australia’s most prestigious music award announces the winner for its 20th prize:
Kankawa Nagarra
with her debut album
Wirlmarni
A huge congratulations to
Kankawa Nagarra
The 80-year-old Walmatjarri Elder, teacher and human rights advocate’s hartfelt album Wirlmarni captivates listeners with its blend of Aboriginal Australian blues, country, and gospel styles, infused with her personal story.
Kankawa takes home $50,000 prize money as the winner of the 20th Soundmerch AMP.
LISTEN HERE
I am so thrilled and proud to receive this award. Thankyou so much to The AMP.
Coming from the remote community of Wangkatjungka which in the past has been shown in a negative light with the focus on the issues and problems. People don’t often get to see the beautiful and positive aspects of my home and I know this award brings much pride to the people of Wangkatjungka, especially to the school and all the children who I hope to be a role model for. I dedicate this award to all my little Greats with a special mention to Tykrira Wilson who stands with me on the cover of the album. I love them all very much. They are my future ancestors.
Kankawa Nagarra
Commencing in 2005, the Australian Music Prize has provided a mouthpiece to the best albums in Australian contemporary music. Now in its 20th year, the prize is widely recognised as the most prestigious award for Australian recording artists.
The integrity of judging and prestige of this peer-voted prize is a major difference for the SoundMerch Australian Music Prize, focusing on creative merit over mainstream popularity. Inspired by the UK's coveted Mercury Prize, the SoundMerch AMP is Australia's most sought after achievement within the music community, honouring the album as an art form.
Judges have been listening to eligible albums for the 20th SoundMerch AMP since April this year. Over 200 albums are currently ‘in the ears’ of the judging team and over 100 more have been identified and await being assigned to judges for the first stage of the process.
This initial judging process will produce 50 Nominees. The Shortlist (9 best albums) will be announced late November, followed by The Winner announcement in early December.
The 21st SoundMerch AMP is open for Australian artist albums released 26.10.24 — 24.10.25
Submit your eligible Australian release for your chance to WIN!