A Mackay mine worker is trying to build an international reggae career around full-time work in Queensland’s mining industry, with his latest single released globally across major streaming platforms.
Gabriel Sendama, who performs as Gabriel GS Reggae, works as a qualified diesel mechanic and maintenance planner while writing, recording and promoting his music during his time away from work.
His second single, U Mek Mi (You Make Me), was released on 7 August and continues his focus on reggae music centred on hope, resilience and connection.
Gabriel said the challenge of balancing a demanding job with creative ambitions had become a central part of his story as an artist.
“I’m not someone who had a record label behind me or millions of dollars to launch a music career,” he said.
“I work full-time, often long hours, and every song has been written, recorded and promoted around my work commitments.
“I know what it feels like to chase a dream while paying bills, working hard and trying to build something meaningful. That’s the story behind my music.”
Originally from Zambia, Gabriel moved to Australia and eventually settled in regional Queensland, where he began developing his music independently. Rather than pursuing the traditional label route, he has funded his own recordings, music videos and promotion while learning the business side of the industry himself.
His music is available on platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube.
The release of U Mek Mi comes at a time when independent musicians have greater access to global audiences through streaming services and social media, although competition remains intense. Industry analysts have noted that independent artists now account for a growing share of music consumption worldwide, particularly in genres with established international audiences such as reggae.
Gabriel believes his background outside the music industry has helped listeners connect with his work.
“There are so many people working in mines, factories, hospitals, construction sites and offices who have talents they’re passionate about,” he said.
“I want them to see that it’s possible to keep building those dreams, even if the journey takes longer.”
The single blends traditional reggae influences with contemporary production and lyrics that draw on his personal experiences.
He said audiences were increasingly interested in artists whose music reflected real life.
“People connect with honesty. They don’t just listen to a song anymore. They want to know who you are and what you’ve overcome,” he said.
“My journey has shaped every lyric I write. My music has been created to capture my experience, history and hope for the future.”
While Gabriel hopes to expand into festival performances, international collaborations and touring, he said his immediate priority was continuing to balance work underground with work in the studio.
“Every shift I work reminds me why I’m doing this,” he said.
“I’m building something for the future.
“If my story encourages just one person to keep believing in themselves and never stop chasing their passion, then every late night in the studio and every early morning at work has been worth it.”
For many Australian musicians, the path to a music career increasingly involves maintaining another profession while developing an audience independently. Gabriel’s experience reflects that reality, with streaming platforms providing opportunities that were once largely limited to artists backed by labels and industry networks.
Whether U Mek Mi becomes a wider commercial breakthrough remains to be seen, but Gabriel’s attempt to build a reggae career from regional Queensland while working full-time in mining has already set him apart from the conventional image of an emerging recording artist.
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