Toni Janke is a celebrated First Nations artist and a proud descendant of the Wuthathi, Yadhaigana, and Meriam peoples of Cape York and Murray Island. With a remarkable career spanning more than 35 years, she has made significant contributions to music, the arts, and the First Nations community. Toni’s longstanding commitment and influence have established her as a respected figure within these fields, highlighting her dedication to cultural expression and advocacy throughout her professional journey.
Growing up in Cairns and Canberra, Toni began performing and writing music at a young age, releasing her original songs on her independent label, Toni Janke Productions. Her discography includes Hearts Speak Out – EP (1993), The Brink (2000), Jewel of the North (2004), Eternal (2021), and a single release, which she co-wrote, performed, and recorded with Maeve Louise Heaney, On This Sacred Ground (2022). Toni has won national awards, including an Australian Women in Music Award (AWMA) in 2024 for promoting inclusion and cultural diversity for First Nations women in the music industry and has performed at major festivals and events.
Toni Janke releases her new single ‘Cool Life’ (12 December), lifted from her forthcoming album due out in 2026, featuring single cover artwork created by Varinia Street. Toni will celebrate with a hometown launch show on January 4 at the Cave Inn in Woolloongabba, ahead of three shows at the Adelaide Fringe Festival.
‘Cool Life’ is a reflective and soulful composition that explores the journey of life, illustrating how experiences—both challenging and uplifting—shape personal growth. Through its evocative lyrics and emotive delivery, the song conveys resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of purpose, offering a nuanced and inspiring perspective on life’s path.
“I wrote ‘Cool Life’ to celebrate the rhythm of life – its highs, lows, and unexpected moments. It’s about trusting the journey and being gentle with ourselves along the way. Life can be unpredictable, but that’s what makes it beautiful. ‘Cool Life’ is a reminder to breathe, laugh, and let things unfold naturally”, Toni Janke said.
Toni continues to inspire with many creative projects, including an upcoming play about her life and music called ‘Inheritance’, which will premiere in Brisbane at QPAC in April 2026.
