Baker Boy wins Album Song Film Clip of the Year 2026 NIMAs
The 2026 National Indigenous Music Awards brought together a celebration of incredible talent and deep cultural connection, culminating in a night that showcased the rich tapestry of Australian music. The ceremony, held on Saturday at the Darwin Amphitheater, celebrated not just outstanding artistry but the powerful link between family, culture, and community.
At the forefront of the celebration was Yolŋu rapper Baker Boy, who swept the awards, taking home three top prizes. He secured Album of the Year for his work on DJANDJAY. Furthermore, his single “THICK SKIN,” featuring Thelma Plum, Emma Donovan, Kee’ahn, and Jada Weazel, was recognized as both Song of the Year and Film Clip of the Year.
Baker Boy’s triumph highlighted the significant impact of his work. Born Danzal Baker in Darwin and raised within the Arnhem Land communities of Milingimbi and Maningrida, he is widely regarded as a pioneer—the first Indigenous artist to achieve mainstream success rapping in the Yolŋu Matha language. His journey to recognition is marked by earlier achievements, including winning triple j’s Unearthed National Indigenous Music Awards competition in 2017 and receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2021.
The evening also recognized other exceptional groups and cultural achievements. Cousin duo Birdz and Fred Leone were honored with Artist of the Year for their debut EP GIRA, while Drifting Clouds earned Best New Talent recognition. Community spirit was also spotlighted through awards such as Community Clip of the Year for “All The Way From The NPA” and the Indigenous Language Award presented to Bulman School & Community for “LOK LOK MAH BURARR” (Lizard & Goanna).
The celebration further honored musical history by inducting Marlene Cummins and the Saltwater Band into the NIMAs Hall of Fame, marking a tribute to their lasting contribution. The event successfully demonstrated how incredible music acts serve as powerful threads connecting diverse communities across the nation.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
