Budjerah, a name rapidly becoming synonymous with soulful artistry and profound musicality, is set to release his highly anticipated debut full-length album, Gentleman, on Friday, July 24. This release marks a pivotal moment in the career of one of Australia’s most promising talents, culminating years of dedicated work and artistic evolution. Hailing from the picturesque coastal town of Fingal Head in northern New South Wales, Budjerah Julum Slabb, as he is fully known, has already garnered significant acclaim, evidenced by his impressive collection of ARIA and APRA Awards. His ascent has been further amplified by a notable collaboration with global superstar Ed Sheeran on his track "2step," and a coveted spot on Sheeran’s 2023 Australian stadium tour, solidifying his presence on the international music stage.
A Journey to the Full-Length Debut
The release of Gentleman signifies the culmination of a journey that has been nearly five years in the making. Budjerah first captured national attention when he was honored with the Best New Artist award at the 2021 ARIA Awards. This prestigious accolade was particularly significant as he became the inaugural recipient of an award renamed in honor of the late Australian music impresario Michael Gudinski. At the time of this win, Budjerah was already aligned with Warner Music Australia (WMA), setting the stage for this significant debut LP, which is being released through a partnership with Warner Records in the United States.
Reflecting on the extended gestation period of the album, Budjerah admits to moments of impatience. "Yeah, it did take a long time," he shared in an interview with Billboard. "There were definitely moments where I was like, ‘oh, oh, come on.’ I think it all turned out how it was supposed to." This sentiment underscores a patient yet determined approach to his craft, allowing the music to mature organically.
The "Gentleman" Persona and Artistic Identity
The title Gentleman is more than just a moniker; it’s a reflection of Budjerah’s personal ethos and artistic presentation. At 24 years old, he exudes a quiet confidence and a polished demeanor, evident in his preference for well-tailored attire. "I like to dress up, so I thought it would be fun," he explained regarding the album’s title and accompanying artwork. This deliberate choice resonates with his heritage as a proud Coodjinburra man, embodying a sense of respect and refinement.
Further cementing this image, Budjerah has recently partnered with Akubra, the iconic Australian hat manufacturer celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. His involvement in a new campaign, featuring a Slim Dusty design, pays homage to the late Australian country music legend, blending tradition with contemporary artistry. This collaboration highlights his deep connection to Australian culture and his ability to bridge generational influences.
Musical Roots and Influences
Budjerah’s musical foundation is deeply rooted in gospel music, a genre he grew up immersed in through his involvement with his church band. This spiritual upbringing has profoundly shaped his vocal technique and his understanding of musicality. While his influences span a wide spectrum, including R&B titans like Michael Jackson, Usher, and Beyoncé, and contemporary Latin artist Rauw Alejandro, he consistently points to Stevie Wonder and the broader gospel tradition as "the foundation of my technique and my musical understanding." This blend of soulful gospel roots with contemporary pop and R&B sensibilities forms the distinctive sound that has captivated audiences.
The Making of a Masterpiece: Production and Songwriting Prowess
Gentleman is the product of meticulous craftsmanship, brought to life with the expertise of seasoned professionals. The album was produced by Om’Mas Keith, renowned for his work with artists like Frank Ocean and Jay-Z, bringing a level of sonic sophistication and creative vision to the project. The songwriting credits on the album are equally impressive, featuring contributions from Grammy-winning songwriter Diane Warren on the album closer, "Even At My Worst." Additional songwriting talents include Autumn Rowe (known for her work with Alexis Jordan and Kylie Minogue), Kizzo Keaz (who has collaborated with Jon Batiste and Ne-Yo), and Philip Lawrence (a frequent collaborator with Bruno Mars).
This powerhouse team has collectively shaped Gentleman into a collection of "up-tempo, performance-ready works with a nostalgic flavor." The result is an album that is both contemporary and timeless, reflecting Budjerah’s unique artistic voice.
Budjerah himself emphasized the value of learning from experienced collaborators. "I learned a lot," he stated, referring to his sessions with Keith. "I really enjoy having a producer or collaborators that are way better than me so I can learn." He acknowledged that Keith "held me to a standard of, like, a lot of older singers," a challenge he embraced and ultimately met with remarkable success.
A Period of Growth and Personal Milestones
The nearly four years that have passed since the initial stages of the Gentleman project have been a period of significant personal and professional growth for Budjerah. Throughout this time, he has consistently engaged his growing fanbase with a steady release of singles and EPs, alongside extensive touring. These efforts have kept his audience connected and anticipating his next move.
Beyond his music career, Budjerah recently marked another significant personal milestone: his marriage to his high school sweetheart, Sophie. The beautiful ceremony and subsequent celebration were featured in Australian Vogue, further highlighting his journey from a rising artist to a public figure embracing new chapters in his life. This period of personal fulfillment undoubtedly informs the maturity and depth present in his debut album.
Album Themes and Artistic Vision
In a heartfelt statement, Budjerah articulated the overarching inspiration behind Gentleman: "inspired by who I wanted to be when I was growing up." He elaborated on the transformative nature of his experiences, stating, "Between my life at home and life on the road, I experienced so much change and growth. Chasing my dreams I faced new challenges which helped me understand who I wanted to be. Every song on this album holds a piece of me. I hope little Budjerah is proud." This introspective perspective reveals an artist who is not only looking forward but also deeply connected to his past and the aspirations that have guided him.
Touring and Future Aspirations
To support the release of Gentleman, Budjerah has announced a five-date national tour across Australia in October and November. This tour promises a revitalized stage production, featuring energetic dancers and a full band, which will include several members of his extended family. This inclusive approach to his live performances underscores the importance of his family and community in his artistic journey. Prior to the national tour, he will also be performing three acoustic sets and participating in album signings in late July, offering intimate opportunities for fans to connect with the new material.
Looking beyond Australia, Budjerah expressed his desire to bring his music to audiences in North America. "I guess time will tell," he remarked, a statement that perfectly encapsulates his patient and resilient approach to his career. His demonstrated talent, combined with his unwavering dedication and the growing international recognition, suggests that his aspirations in North America are well within reach.
The release of Gentleman is not merely the debut of an album; it is the proclamation of an artist who has honed his craft, embraced his identity, and is ready to share his compelling narrative with the world. Budjerah’s journey from Fingal Head to the global stage is a testament to his undeniable talent and the enduring power of authentic artistic expression.
