Gawurra grew up in Milingimbi Island off the coast of northeast Arnhem Land, and sings in Gupapuyngu language.
His debut album Ratja Yaliyali (which means "vine of love") is a collection of songs inspired by the traditional songlines of his homelands. This album was recorded at CAAMA Music in Alice Springs Australia. At the 2016 National Indigenous Music Awards, Ratja Yaliyali received awards for Album of the Year and New Talent of the Year. The album also received awards for Cover Art and Film Clip.