Kayps is busy. Two days before he gets on the phone to PLAY he has opened for Denzel Curry’s Perth show. And two days after we chat he’s jumping on a plane to the US to perform at mega music industry showcase event, SXSW.

“We’re doing three live showcases, and this will be the first time performing live to an international audience so very, very excited about that,” Kayps says.

On his return he will be straight back in the studio putting the final touches on his first EP set for release later this year.

So expect to hear a lot more about Kayps in 2025, as the buzz that has been building around this hip hop artist reaches fever pitch.

Born in Broome, Kayps’ (it’s pronounced “capes” if you’re wondering) real name is Kurrungaya Bieundurry. He is a Walmatjarri and Bunuba man, now based in Perth.

Growing up, he started to get into hip hop by listening to his parent’s Wu-Tang Clan and OutKast CDs, but says he is inspired musically by a wide range of artists.

“I think for all creatives you are all influenced by all the media and art you consume. I was definitely taking inspiration from Kendrick Lamar, Denzel Curry, J Cole, that big, powerful jazzy production but mixed with that underlying aggression. And I guess that’s what I was trying to emulate when I was first starting out. It took me a few years to find my own voice, my own sound.

“I think being Indigenous Australian there is so much culture there that hasn’t been as intertwined with hip hop as much, especially in WA so I think there is a lot of opportunity for influence from culture.”

Kayps says the Perth hip hop scene is a strong community and is getting stronger.

“We’re in an era when everyone is learning how to make beats and write their own music in their bedroom so there is more and more opportunities every week for local artists to showcase what they’ve been making and live performance as well. I love it, I love the community here.”

Songs to stream: Buon Giorno, MIMOSA!