Australian singer-songwriter Budjerah has officially released his highly anticipated debut album, Gentleman, a milestone that comes after four years of songwriting, touring and artistic growth. The 24-year-old artist said the album represents years of personal experiences and creative development, making it his most meaningful project to date.
Born Budjerah Julum Slabb, the Coodjinburra artist from the Bundjalung Nation in Fingal Head, New South Wales, first gained national attention with his 2020 debut single Missing You. Since then, he has become one of Australia's leading contemporary R&B and pop performers, earning multiple ARIA Awards and recognition within the Indigenous music community.
Budjerah explained that creating a full-length album took much longer than expected. While he originally hoped to release an album in 2022, constant touring and the success of hit singles such as Therapy delayed the project. During that time, he wrote enough material for several albums before selecting the final eleven tracks featured on Gentleman.
The album was produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Om'Mas Keith, known for his work with artists including Frank Ocean and Jay-Z. Musically, Gentleman blends classic soul, R&B and contemporary pop, reflecting the music Budjerah grew up listening to through his family and church community.
Among the album's standout tracks is Want You Back, which received international attention after being featured by Elton John on his Rocket Hour radio program. The title track, Gentleman, showcases Budjerah's energetic performance style while drawing inspiration from legendary soul performer James Brown.
The album also features collaborations with acclaimed songwriters, including Diane Warren, who co-wrote Even at My Worst. Budjerah described working with Warren as a dream opportunity and one of the highlights of his career.
Away from music, Budjerah recently married his high school sweetheart, Sophie Slabb, and says many of the album's songs were inspired by his personal experiences with love, family and faith. Raised in a musical family where both parents are pastors, he continues to draw inspiration from gospel music and remains active in his local church.
To celebrate the release of Gentleman, Budjerah has announced an Australian headline tour beginning in Melbourne on 31 October, before visiting Anglesea, Sydney, the Gold Coast and Brisbane during November. The tour will give fans their first opportunity to hear the new album performed live.
Budjerah said his long-term ambition is to become a "triple threat" entertainer, combining singing, acting and dancing. Having already supported global stars such as Ed Sheeran, he believes Gentleman represents the beginning of the next chapter of his career.
