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J-MILLA is an emerging rapper from Darwin, Australia, whose music is deeply rooted in his Indigenous heritage as a proud member of the Marranungu people, the traditional landowners of Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory. From a young age, J-MILLA understood the power of storytelling, with music and narrative woven into the fabric of his life. His passion for writing lyrics began at just 11 years old, and it’s this personal connection to storytelling that shapes his music today.

While J-MILLA’s lyrics reflect his Indigenous culture, they also speak to the broader experiences of a young artist navigating the rap scene. "I write all my own lyrics, which are generally a reflection of my life experiences," says J-MILLA. "It's not my intention to isolate anyone. I hope my music brings people together, especially for a good time." His dedication to authenticity ensures that each track he releases is a true expression of who he is—shaped by those around him and the world he’s experiencing.

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Ones To Watch: Introduce yourself. Tell us who you are and how you came about.

J-Milla: Alright, so I'll go by the artist name J-Milla. I'm from Darwin, NT, where we're standing right now. I'm a tribe member of the Maranangle people from a location called Litchfield National Park, near Bamboo Creek, Litchfield area. It's about an hour and 45 minutes out of Darwin. Music has always been around me since I was a kid—whether I was going to sports or cleaning up the house, we'd pump music to get that energy going. But it wasn’t until I was about 18 that I started making music professionally in a studio. After finishing school, I started doing hip hop rap videos online and wanted to take my music to a professional level, so I started recording in the studio.

When did you realise you wanted to pursue music?

The moment I realised I wanted to pursue music was when I was working at Subway in South Australia, Adelaide. I was really into writing my music at the time, and it helped me express my emotions. It felt like the microphone was my only listener. After gaining some followers online and getting positive messages from people saying my music was life-changing for them, I realised it wasn’t just helping me—it was helping others too. That’s when I knew I had a voice with purpose and decided to pursue it as a career.

How would you describe your music?

I would describe my music as mixed. One moment, you might get a huge burst of energy with a song that makes you want to snap your neck, and the next, I might hit you with a darker, more introspective vibe, talking about generational change or past memories. I would say it’s mostly energetic and fun, but there’s definitely a range of emotions in there.

Is there a difference in your music from when you started to now?

Yes, there’s a big difference. When I started, I was just talking about what I was going through at the time, and my lyrics weren’t as meaningful. But now, I’ve gone through a lot of life experiences, like becoming a father of two. Music now has a much deeper meaning for me. It’s not just about me anymore; it’s for my children, and I’ve got a lot more to talk about.

Who or what has influenced your music career?

There are a few direct people who influenced me, but I think there have been moments in my life that really shaped my career. Early on, I wanted to be like the artists I listened to growing up—like Chris Brown, Joyner Lucas, or making club tracks like Tyga. I also wanted to rap like Tupac and speak the real truth. But a major turning point for me was losing my cousin to murder a few years ago. That loss gave me a new motivation to make music that could inspire the next generation and help make positive change for the youth looking up to me. So, moments like that have had a bigger influence on my career than anything.

Let’s talk about your songwriting process. Is there anything that motivates you to write?

I always start by listening to an instrumental. Whether it’s a piano, trumpet, or any other instrument, the beat gives me a feeling—whether it’s a mellow vibe or a high-energy vibe. From there, I just go with how I’m feeling and talk about what’s going on in my life. Every experience I go through gives me new topics to write about.

If there was one thing you wanted someone to take away from your music, what would it be?

I’d want people to take away a whole new level of motivation. Listen to the lyrics, and walk away with the message that you should do what you love. Find your passion, and don’t let anyone else’s opinions stop you from doing what makes you happy. It’s all about doing it for yourself, because your mind and body are temples.

Have you experienced any challenges when it comes to making music or writing?

I’ve faced challenges, but they haven’t stopped me. Even in dark times, I find that those experiences just give me new topics to write about. It’s like I go through these blockages, but once I get past them, I’m able to talk about them, and others can relate. So, there’s always motivation in challenges. It’s not easy, but it keeps me going.

Are there any career highlights that you’ve had so far?

Yes! One of the biggest highlights was performing in Darwin, NT. Growing up here, I always watched others perform, and about a month and a half ago, I was lucky enough to perform there myself. It was a huge accomplishment for me—it was like making my Darwin dream come true. Other highlights include getting awards and recognition, and having this interview today. Every little accomplishment counts, and there’s more to come. I’m excited to see what’s next.

Would you say you’re more spontaneous on stage, or do you like to plan everything out?

I’m definitely more spontaneous on stage. Sometimes I’ll do something and think, “I wasn’t supposed to do that,” but it works. While I rehearse and practice, there’s always room for improvisation. You can’t plan everything, and that’s what makes it exciting. When you see me on stage, expect something spontaneous!

What are your goals from now and beyond?

My ultimate goal as an artist would be to sell out an entertainment centre and have the crowd singing my music. But beyond that, my real goal is to create change for the next generation. I want to show them that someone from where they come from—like me—can make it, and that they can too. I want to motivate the youth, and I also want to change the future for my family. I want my kids to experience what I didn’t at their age, and to not have to struggle like I did.

Any advice for emerging artists?

My advice would be: keep doing what you’re doing, and use social media. These days, anyone can blow up through social media, so be consistent and create the music that you love. Don’t just follow trends—create what feels true to you. Stick with it, level up, and you’ll get there.