Andrea Kirwin: The Soulful Fusion of Folk, Funk & Fij

From Canberra Gigs to National Folk Stages

Andrea Kirwin's music journey is one born out of heart, heritage, and hustle. The Australian/Fijian singer-songwriter made a bold decision early in life—dropping out of her arts/law degree at age 21 to pursue a path in music. Armed with a guitar and a deep well of stories, she hit the road with the Andi and George Band, performing at major festivals like Woodford Folk Festival, Womadelaide, and The Dreaming Festival between 2008.

These DIY tours, often traveling in a converted school bus with a collective of creatives, helped build her grassroots following. The band released four self-produced albums, with legendary live performances that continue to echo in Canberra's indie scene history.

A Sound Rooted in Heritage

Andrea’s musical DNA is infused with her gospel upbringing—being the daughter of a Fijian preacher—and the acoustic folk and soul influences she gravitated toward in her youth. Her voice carries a warmth and power that’s deeply personal, yet universally resonant.

Whether she’s performing solo, in a duo with her wife Claire Evelynn (on Celtic harp), or leading her 13-piece world-fusion band The Yama-Nui Social Club, Andrea brings heart, groove, and storytelling to every stage.

Connect with Andrea on Instagram

A Force for Connection and Community

More than a performer, Andrea is a cultural connector and independent music trailblazer. Through Peace Run Records, she champions original music and local talent, nurturing a community around authenticity, storytelling, and soulful expression.

With each performance and project, Andrea Kirwin continues to build a legacy rooted in music that heals, unites, and celebrates the richness of identity and experience.

Peace Run Records & a Solo Evolution

In 2009, Andrea founded her own label, Peace Run Records, marking the beginning of a prolific solo career. Her sophomore album, The Story of Us, earned Queensland Music Award nominations, while her co-write, Love Everybody, with Nyssa Ray won a QMA for Best Children’s Song.

Her latest release, Bloom (2021), received critical acclaim and was nominated in both the Folk and World Music categories at the Queensland Music Awards. The album encapsulates her evolution—sonically rich, soulfully rooted, and spiritually uplifting.