King Stingray has announced the departure of lead vocalist Yirrŋa Yunupiŋu just as the band prepares to embark on their massive For The Dreams national tour.
The announcement was shared via the band’s social media on March 19, confirming that Yunupiŋu, who co-founded the band in 2020, will no longer be part of the lineup. Stepping into the role is Ngalakan Wanambi, who has already performed with King Stingray on their recent U.S. tour.
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“Hey everyone, we’ve got some news to share – King Stingray and Yirrŋa have parted ways,” the band wrote. “To keep the fire burning, we’re stoked to introduce the deadly Ngalakan Wanambi stepping up on vocals. He absolutely smashed it with us on our recent U.S. tour, and as always, our main man, Dima Burarrwanga, will be bringing the energy as he always does.”
Formed in Yirrkala, a remote community in Arnhem Land, King Stingray quickly made a name for themselves with their blend of Yolŋu rock, seamlessly fusing Indigenous sounds with surf-rock and alternative influences. Yunupiŋu, the nephew of the late Dr. M. Yunupiŋu of Yothu Yindi, co-founded the group with guitarist Roy Kellaway, the son of Yothu Yindi bassist Stuart Kellaway.
With Yunupiŋu as lead singer, King Stingray released their self-titled debut album in 2022, followed by For The Dreams in November 2024. The band has since been at the forefront of Australia’s contemporary music scene, winning critical acclaim and multiple awards, including an ARIA for Best Independent Release.
Their For The Dreams national tour kicks off March 21 at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion, followed by stops in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Fremantle. Special guests Beddy Rays and The Belair Lip Bombs will join them on select dates.
Despite the lineup change, the band assured fans that the tour will retain the signature King Stingray energy. “This For The Dreams tour is gonna be something really special – same King Stingray spirit, same unstoppable Yolŋu rock and a whole lotta love,” they wrote.
