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JURAN is an artist who commands attention with her soulful voice, magnetic stage presence, and dynamic musical journey. Based in Tropical Darwin, her artistry spans a vast emotional and sonic range, from luminous love songs to the shadowy depths of the human psyche. With Ngāti Kahungunu and Te Aitanga o Hauiti iwi heritage, Juran’s music is shaped by her diverse cultural influences, from her Aotearoa roots to her years spent in Arnhem Land, embracing both her own and Yolngu traditions.

Her musical journey began in church choirs and blossomed into an exploration of genres from Motown to punk, creating melodies that reflect her personal experiences and emotional depth. Since releasing her debut single Belle in 2017, Juran has continued to captivate audiences with a series of singles, including Wish U Well, which earned her a nomination for NT’s Pop Song of the Year. With upcoming collaborations, her debut album Demons on the horizon, and her work with projects like Clink and Mr Chrisy Mertas, Juran’s future is nothing short of electric.

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Ones To Watch: Please introduce yourself and tell us how you got into music.

Juran: My name is Juran, and I’m a Māori woman from Tolaga Bay, currently based in Darwin. I’m a singer-songwriter and guitarist. I grew up in a very musical family—one of eight siblings. My parents were both singers, and I was always surrounded by music. I watched my siblings perform around the world, which inspired me to pursue music. I started in punk rock and metal, but eventually expanded into other genres, influenced by the music around me. After high school, I decided to focus on music and moved to Arnhem Land, where I met a producer, Andrew Grimes, who helped me create my first EP and singles. Later, I moved to Darwin and connected with new collaborators, and now I describe my sound as alternative soul.

How would you describe your music?

I’d say my music is alternative soul with influences from punk rock, drum and bass, and reggae. It’s evolved with my personal growth and lifestyle, but right now it feels authentically “me.” It’s about experimenting with different sounds while staying true to what I grew up listening to.

What’s the biggest difference between your early music and what you’re making now?

The biggest difference is my confidence. I started out with a more reggae sound, but it didn’t feel quite right. Now I’m more comfortable in my own skin and my music reflects that. It’s heavier, and I’ve embraced a more authentic sound with the musicians I work with. It’s all about being true to ourselves and having fun with it.

Who or what has influenced your music the most?

Jeff Buckley has been a huge influence on me. His emotional depth as a singer and songwriter really resonates with me. The way he connects with his audience and writes from the heart is something I aspire to in my own music.

Can you describe your songwriting process?

Recently, a lot of my writing has been inspired by heartbreak and pain, which has actually made songwriting easier. I’ll often start with a loop or a chord progression and build from there. I’ve written an entire album recently, and a lot of it comes from emotional release. I usually record memos on my phone or use a looping machine to capture ideas. My writing process is very fluid—it’s all about letting the emotions flow.

What do you hope people take away from your music?

I want people to feel whatever they feel when they listen to my music. There’s no right or wrong way to interpret it. I just want them to connect with it in their own way.

Have you faced any challenges as a songwriter or performer?

Yes, I’ve struggled with writer’s block, especially when I’m stressed or tired. And when I’m performing, I sometimes forget my own songs on stage! I have to look to my band for cues or even restart a song. But I’m working on it, and I’ve been practicing a lot.

What has been a career highlight so far?

A major highlight was performing at the Sydney Opera House in 2022 as part of a showcase for Arnhem Land artists. It was incredible to perform on such a big stage. Another highlight was hosting "Club Awie" at the Darwin Festival, which was a dance event that helped me build confidence in my stage presence. Every release is also a highlight for me.

What was performing at the Sydney Opera House like?

It was surreal. Looking out at the packed audience was overwhelming in the best way. I’ve never performed for such a large crowd, and the adrenaline was amazing. I was definitely nervous, but it was a huge moment for me.

Are you more spontaneous or do you prefer to plan things out?

I’m mostly spontaneous when it comes to performance, but I do like to plan for interviews and talking. I get nervous, so I like to rehearse and make sure I don’t say anything weird.

What are your goals for the future?

I have big dreams, like touring internationally and collaborating with other artists and producers. Right now, my short-term goal is finishing my album and connecting with people through my music. I just want to keep creating and hope my songs resonate with others.

What’s your go-to meal after a show?

Definitely something with carbs—pizza or a burger. After performing, I’m usually so drained that I crave something hearty to refuel.