A Warnindhilyagwa woman from Groote Eylandt who performs both in English and Anindilyakwa language, Emily Wurramara is one of Australia’s most respected contemporary First Nations artists. Known for her powerful voice, emotionally rich songwriting and deep cultural storytelling, Wurramara’s music speaks to identity, healing, and belonging.
A powerful storyteller and performer, Wurramara regularly shares stages with renowned artists including the late uncle Archie Roach, Michael Franti, Mavis Staples, Midnight Oil, Missy Higgins and Thelma Plum.
A six-time Queensland Music Award winner, Wurramara is also a passionate advocate for environmental issues, mental health awareness and youth suicide prevention.
Songwriting helps Emily make sense of the world. Through music, she discovered her life’s purpose. “To me, songwriting is like a ceremony, it’s sacred,” Emily shares. “It allows connection to happen; not to the physical, but to the soul, to the spirit.”
In the wake of her sold-out headlining show at Sydney Opera House for VIVID 2025, this lutruwita/Tasmania-based artist, activist and author is perfectly poised for her next musical chapter.