Perth-based hip-hop artist, Kayps, a proud Walmatjarri and Bunuba man, has officially signed a record deal with Bad Apples Music.
In 2021, Kayps won triple j Unearthed’s Indigenous Initiative award and, continuing his upward trajectory, was named Good Intent’s Greater Good initiative winner last year.
In late 2024, Kayps was named an artist to watch in 2025. The Music’s Emma Newbury described him as one of Australia’s “most promising young talents,” and, describing his music, wrote:
Seamlessly blending lush rap-pop melodies with breakneck lyrical flow, Kayps creates the ultimate summer soundtrack while showcasing an emotional and vulnerable edge in tracks like Hush.
Welcoming Kayps to his new label home, Bad Apples Music founder Briggs said, “Kayps is an exciting new artist and unique talent hailing from a strong WA mob. We’re excited for the world to hear his story and honoured to support his vision.”
Kayps added, “It’s super exciting and such an honour to be welcomed by the Bad Apples family. I share similar stories with the whole team, so I know they’re going to do the message I’m pushing justice.”
Kayps’ grandfather’s side of the family is based in the remote community of Wantkatjungka.
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Describing growing up in a remote community as “one of the best things” because everyone feels like one big family, the rising star has previously commented that the connection and comfort he felt “was one of the best feelings, especially on land that our ancestors walked on for thousands and thousands of generations.”
In an interview with The Music, Kayps discussed the ways his heritage has shaped his sound and storytelling. “Understanding how important songlines and storytelling is within our culture from such an early age, I feel, is where the interest in music started,” he explained.
He continued, “There was never a day that went past without hearing music, whether that was in language from one of the uncles or aunties, or my dad just sitting out the front of the house playing guitar, so I feel like growing up in that environment definitely fuelled the desire to pursue music since an early age.”
With a new album, BUNUBA BABY, on the way, Kayps’ star is on the rise.
