Baker Boy dominated the 2026 National Indigenous Music Awards, winning Album of the Year for DJANDJAY, while his single THICK SKIN — featuring Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Kee ahn and Jada Weazel — claimed both Song of the Year and Film Clip of the Year at a ceremony held Saturday, August 8, at Darwin Amphitheater.
Baker Boy performed THICK SKIN live at the ceremony with Donovan as a surprise guest. Cousin duo Birdz and Fred Leone won Artist of the Year for their debut EP GIRA. Drifting Clouds took Best New Talent, Northern Peninsula Area won Community Clip of the Year for All The Way From The NPA, and Bulman School & Community earned the Indigenous Language Award for LOK LOK MAH BURARR (Lizard & Goanna).
Blues musician Marlene Cummins and Elcho Island’s Saltwater Band were inducted into the NIMAs Hall of Fame. “Last night’s celebration brought together some of the most incredible music and musicians this country produces, showcasing the rich connection of family and culture,” said MusicNT’s Mark Smith.
Born Danzal Baker in Darwin and raised in Arnhem Land communities of Milingimbi and Maningrida, Baker Boy is widely regarded as the first Indigenous artist to achieve mainstream success rapping in the Yolŋu Matha language. He broke through in 2017 after winning triple j’s Unearthed National Indigenous Music Awards competition, with singles Cloud 9 and Marryuna both landing in that year’s triple j Hottest 100.
Baker Boy was named Young Australian of the Year in 2019 and awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2021. His debut album Gela (2021) earned him five wins from seven nominations at the 2022 ARIA Awards. DJANDJAY is his second studio album.
Source: Billboard
