An Indigenous Australian musician, who sings in the Yolngu language.
Background
Born blind, Gurrumul grew up as a member of the Gumatj clan on Elcho Island, off the coast of tropical North East Arnhem Land. His fragile but powerfully emotive voice has affected the public in a way no other artist has done in this country. This unique Aboriginal man sings songs about identity, spirit and connection with the land, its elements and the ancestral beings he is related to. His high tenor voice and aura-like persona creates emotion, compassion and a feeling of peacefulness and longing with audiences in Australia and around the world.
Career
In today’s world where the media and the music industries are based around hype, fashion and disposable artists, Gurrumul has emerged as unique celebrity, who will ‘change the way you breathe’ (Brisbane Courier Mail, 2008) and change the way people listen to and experience his Yolngu cultural world through an accessible Western music style.
Gurrumul first came to attention when he released his eponymous debut to international claim. His angelic voice connected with listeners worldwide including Elton John, will.I.am and Sting who are big fans. The debut album ‘Gurrumul’ has sold half a million copies worldwide, reaching Triple Platinum in Australia, his second solo album ‘Rralaka’ released in April 2011 has hit Platinum, and the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine declared Gurrumul “Australia’s Most Important Voice” (Rolling Stone, April 2011)
Musical Background:
1989 – 1992 Member of Yothu Yindi & featured on Tribal Voice album
1999 Yothu Yindi One Blood album - musician
2002 Yothu Yindi Garma album - musician
1999 - present Member of Saltwater Band on the following albums: Gapu Damurrur [1999], Djarridjarri (Blue Flag) [2004], Malk [2010]