The Australian music scene has always been a breeding ground for exceptional talent, and 2023 is proving to be no exception. With the ARIA Awards just around the corner, we spotlight nominated artists Genesis Owusu, Budjerah and Brad Cox, who are leading the charge for the next generation of Aussie music.

Genesis Owusu

The Genre-Defying Visionary

Genesis Owusu aka Kofi Owusu-Ansah was born in Koforidua, Ghana and as a toddler, his parents moved his family from West Africa to Australia. Now at 25 Owusu has acknowledged this experience as one that has since shaped his music, along with his family's rich and cultural heritage. Genesis Owusu’s music defies categorisation, blending elements of hip-hop, funk, rock, and electronic, creating a sonic experience that is nothing short of exhilarating.

Owusu exploded onto the scene with his 2021 debut album, "Smiling with No Teeth," receiving widespread acclaim and seven ARIA nominations, four of which he won including Album of the Year. This year Genesis has yet again dominated and took charge against other nominees with another whopping seven ARIA nominations off the back of his sophomore album ‘STRUGGLER’.

To celebrate the release of his new album ‘STRUGGLER’, Genesis Owusu will be rounding out 2023 with a huge run of headline shows, presented by Cult Artists, Astral People and Handsome Tours.

On December 1, Owusu will take to the Ice Cream Factory in Perth, before heading to Melbourne’s Festival Hall on December 8. The following night, Owusu will perform at the UC Refectory in Canberra, followed by a final set of performances at the Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane on December 14, Hordern Pavilion in Sydney on December 15, and the closing performance December 16 at Adelaide’s Hindley Street Music Hall. Joining Owusu for each show will be very special guests, EARTHGANG (excluding Perth) & Elsy Wameyo.

The Ghanaian-Australian artist's music is not just about the sound, with lyrics exploring themes of identity, mental health, and the complexities of being a young artist navigating the world. He weaves these intricate narratives with a live performance that has captivated audiences worldwide that are not to be missed and you can enquire to have Genesis Owusu at your next event.

Genesis Owusu’s 2023 ARIA nominations:

Album of the Year, Best Solo Artist, Best Independent Release, Best Hip Hop / Rap Release, Best Video, Best Engineered Release & Best Produced Release

Make an Enquiry – GENESIS OWUSU

Budjerah

RnB/Soul Fusion

Budjerah Slabb, known professionally as Budjerah, hails from the coastal town of Yamba in New South Wales, Australia. Thanks to his family's deep appreciation for music, Budjerah was surrounded and exposed to a wide range of genres from a young age, shaping his musical tastes and talents.

His self-titled debut EP, released in 2021, put him on the map in Australians’ eyes and ears, taking out the ARIA for Breakthrough Artist and following Budjerah’s second EP ‘Conversations’ in 2022 led to his second ARIA for Best Soul/R&B Release. An incredible 2023 has seen Budjerah crowned Artist of the Year at the National Indigenous Music Awards, collab with Ed Sheeran plus the release of his own smash hit “Therapy” earning 5 ARIA nominations.

What sets Budjerah apart is not just his vocal prowess but also his commitment to delving into themes of self-discovery, which connects on a profound level with his audience. Make sure to catch his performance at this year's ARIA’s, and if you love it make sure to enquire with acta about Budjerah for your next event.

Budjerah’s 2023 ARIA nominations:

Song of the Year, Best Solo Artist, Best Pop Release, Best Video & Best Australian Live Act

Make an Enquiry - BUDJERAH

Brad Cox

Snowy Mountains to Centre Stage

Snowy Mountains country singer Brad Cox is a rising Australian musician known for his heartfelt country music. Growing up in Jindabyne, Cox's musical passion began when he picked up a guitar at a young age, inspired by the classic sounds of country legends like Johnny Cash and Keith Urban.

With a distinct blend of country, folk, and rock influences, Cox has carved out a niche in the music scene that's uniquely his own. His authentic and emotive songwriting, coupled with a powerful, gravelly voice, has endeared him to music lovers both in Australia and beyond.

In 2018, Brad Cox released his self-titled debut album starting a wave of music-making momentum. Cox released his second album “My Mind’s Projection” was a breakout success receiving his first ARIA nomination for Best Country Album in 2021. Brad has not stopped there releasing his new 17-track album "Acres” which has garnered three ARIA nominations including Best Country Album and Best Australian Live Act.

As Brad Cox continues to evolve as an artist, he is set to make an indelible mark on the country music landscape, and his genuine, down-to-earth approach has solidified his place as one of Australia's most promising and beloved musical talents.

Brad Cox’s 2023 ARIA nominations:

Best Country Album, Best Australian Live Act & Best Cover Art

Make an Enquiry - BRAD COX

The Future Looks Bright

Genesis Owusu, Budjerah & Brad Cox represent the diverse, evolving landscape of Australian music in 2023. Their music transcends traditional genre boundaries and speaks to a generation searching for authenticity, meaningful storytelling, and a fresh take on familiar sounds.

As we anticipate the 2023 ARIA Awards, these three artists stand as shining examples of the next wave of talent in Australia. Genesis Owusu, Budjerah and Brad Cox are crafting music and pathways for a variety of genres that are sure to leave a mark on the Australian music industry and beyond.

Looking to book talent? We'd love to assist!

Register today for exclusive access to the industry's leading talent booking platform – actaapp.com