What’s happening?
Fresh from live stages around the Gold Coast and a strong run at Tamworth, rising band Seajem Sounds have released their debut original single, The Door. The track has already secured airplay before it officially arrives on streaming platforms on September 19.
After being entered into Triple J Unearthed High, ABC Country embraced the single, adding it to full rotation two weeks before its release and supporting it with a feature on Saturday Night Country.
Seajem Sounds are fronted by sisters Chelsea and Jemilla Cunningham, joined by bandmates Noah Dunlop, Loki Gibson and Oscar Kelly. Formed through high school, the group has been performing together ever since.
“We didn’t want to just be seen as a covers band,” Chelsea said. “If we want to be known for who we are, we’ve got to put originals out there.”
Why it matters
The Door is the first original track from Seajem Sounds, a step that defines the band’s identity beyond covers. The single reflects their indie-country coastal sound, blending warm harmonies with a story of love, loss and finding light again.
“It’s uplifting. It’s about realising that even when love feels gone, there’s still something bright around the corner,” Noah said.
Local impact
The Gold Coast-based group has built its reputation through local venues and at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. With gigs at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse and Greenbank Services Club, plus a spot at Groundwater, the band is representing regional talent on significant stages.
By the numbers
2 weeks of ABC Country full rotation before release, highlighting early national support.
5 members make up Seajem Sounds, led by sisters Chelsea and Jemilla Cunningham.
15 years in Nashville for producer Peter Aaron King, before returning to the Gold Coast to work on the track.
Zoom in
The idea for The Door began after the 2025 Tamworth Country Music Festival, when Loki and Noah busked on the Boulevard of Dreams, Peel Street. That moment grew into the band’s first original song.
The track was produced by Peter Aaron King, who recently returned to the Gold Coast after 15 years in Nashville where he worked on Wynonna Judd’s album. Mastering was handled by Paul Blakey.
Chelsea also recently graduated from the 2025 CMAA Junior Course in Tamworth, marking another milestone for the group.
Zoom out
Seajem Sounds entered the track into Triple J Unearthed High, which helped secure early exposure. ABC Country’s decision to put it on full rotation, along with support from Saturday Night Country, provided national attention ahead of the release.
The band continues to build momentum with bookings at Groundwater, Mo’s Desert Clubhouse and Greenbank Services Club. Their progress points to a bright future within Australia’s country music scene.
What to look for next
Fans can stay connected with Seajem Sounds’ social media.