King Stingray is a story of lifelong friendship and two cultures coming together. Growing up together in Yirrkala in North-East Arnhem Land, founding members Yirrŋa Yunupiŋu (frontman) and Roy Kellaway (guitar) have been playing and making music together for as long as they can remember.
Yirrŋa and Roy formed King Stingray with mates Dimathaya Burarrwanga (rhythm guitar, backing vocals and yidaki), Campbell Messer (bass) and Lewis Stiles (drums) in 2019, before officially welcoming Yidaki-master Yimila Gurruwiwi into the fold in 2022. The band blend ancient indigenous melodies with surf, indie and funk influences to create their unique “Yolŋu surf-rock” sound which has captivated the nation.
With friendship, family, connection to country and culture resonating through everything they do, King Stingray are on track to forge a lasting legacy in the Australian music landscape.
“a band living their own dream, radiating with happiness and infectious enthusiasm. It’s happening.” – The Guardian
“..one of the most exciting rock bands to emerge from this country in a generation.”