Sally Balfour is an independent artist from Garramilla / Darwin, whose sound drifts between alt-folk and country, music grounded in the red dust, open skies, and vast heart of the NorthernTerritory. With haunting vocals, vivid storytelling, and disarming honesty, she has swiftly become one of the Territory’s most compelling voices in contemporary Australian folk.
After years of honing her craft on stages across the country, Sally released her long-awaited debut EP in 2023 a deeply personal collection of songs more than a decade in the making. Exploring love in all its forms the record introduced listeners to her unmistakable warmth and lyrical depth. Her single Nothing Short of a Mess earned Country Song of the Year at the 2024 NT Music Awards and placed her as a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition. Her debut single Calling Me Home also resonated strongly, reaching #9 on the Territory Sounds Countdown and affirming her as a distinctive new voice in Australian folk.
Sally’s creative range shines through in Clara Crocodile (2021), a children’s album celebrating Northern Territory storytelling. Recorded in Mparntwe (Alice Springs), the record is a joyful, multi-genre journey featuring a plethora of Territory artists. Its standout track Mango captured hearts far beyond the NT, earning another semi-finalist placement in the International Songwriting Competition. With playful melodies and clever lyrics, Clara Crocodile is delighting children while resonating deeply with parents and communities across Australia.
Recognised both nationally and internationally, Sally’s growing profile reflects her ability to connect with audiences through honesty, emotion, and a touch of humour. Whether performing in intimate venues or on major festival stages, she brings warmth, ease, and authenticity to every performance.
I acknowledge the Larrakia People as the Traditional Custodians of the land in which I live, write and play music.