Stuart Joel Nuggett facts for kids

Stuart Joel Nuggett (whose traditional name is Kirriyangunji) is a talented country musician from the Jingili people. He lives in Alice Springs, Australia. Stuart is special because he sings in both English and his traditional languages, Mudbura and Jingulu.

Stuart's Music Journey

Stuart Joel Nuggett grew up in a place called Elliott (Kulumindini) in the Northern Territory. When he was younger, he was the lead singer for a rock band called Storm Riders. The band had other great musicians like Samuel Sandy and Jason Bill from the Kulumindini Band, along with Farryl Jones, Terrance Cooper, and Clifford Campbell.

Early Music and Language

In 2002, Storm Riders released a short album called an extended play (EP) titled Waiting on a Miracle. They also performed at the Merrepen Festival in 2014.

Stuart learned the Jingulu language from his mother, Janet Sandy-Gregory. She was one of only a few people who spoke the language fluently. This connection to his language is very important in his music.

Solo Career and Albums

In 2019, Stuart released his own five-song EP, also called Stuart Nuggett. This EP featured songs sung in the Jingulu language. It was released through CAAMA Music, a record label that supports Indigenous artists. His music was even performed at big events like the First Nations Media Awards and the National Live Music Awards.

One of his songs, "Nayurni" (which means "woman"), was nominated for a special award. It was up for the Indigenous Language Award of the Year at the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) in 2020.

After his EP came out, Stuart signed with CAAMA Music. In October 2020, he released his first full album, Ngaaya-Ma Jingila Baaya. This album has songs in both Jingulu and English. Two songs from this album were also nominated for NIMAs in 2021.

Standing Up for the Land

In 2019, Stuart Nuggett joined other First Nations people to protest. They were concerned about a company called Origin Energy using a method called fracking in the Beetaloo Basin area. Stuart spoke out because he was worried about how this might affect the environment and the land.

Continuing Projects

Stuart's music is also part of the Jingili Song Project. This project helps keep the Jingulu language alive through songs. It is supported by a musician from Darwin named David Garnham.

Stuart has performed at big music events. He played at the Port Fairy Folk Festival and the National Folk Festival in 2025.

Awards and Nominations

Stuart Joel Nuggett has been recognized for his amazing music and his efforts to keep his language strong.

National Indigenous Music Awards