Created In Partnership With Mentos
Listen to Sollyy’s latest track, “FAIR DINKUM”, and you’ll understand the artist’s whole ethos: collaboration, joy, and club-ready production that will have you begging to dance.
The Western Sydney producer, DJ and curator has been handpicked to be a part of the Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26, curated by Rolling Stone AU/NZ — a new annual platform celebrating the country’s most exciting emerging talent, and it’s easy to see why.
Sollyy’s latest album I LEFT MYY HEART OUT WEST earned global praise from Pitchfork, triple j, BBC Radio 1Xtra, Soulection Radio, Spotify and Apple Music, and his rotating roster of collaborators, including Breakfast Road, Church, and Zion Garcia) showcases his ability to bring together some of the most exciting voices across Australia’s evolving hip-hop landscape.
As part of the Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26, you’ll be seeing Sollyy’s name a lot more over the next 12 months. To kick us off, read an exclusive interview with Sollyy below.
Rolling Stone AU/NZ: Describe your ‘Fresh Sound’ in three words
Sollyy: Club, old school, new-school.
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Tell us about your latest release
It’s called “FAIR DINKUM”. I made it with a few of the bros; one of them produced it, and it samples one of the bros’ tunes as well. I’d call it a sonic distillation of the energy of a Sollyy DJ set.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far on your musical journey?
You’re only as embarrassed as you say you are. It’s all in your approach and your willingness to fall flat — and knowing there’s no shame in that.
What’s your dream venue to play?
The Apollo in New York City.
What’s coming up for you in 2026 and beyond?
More bangers. A project.
What one thing do you think the Australian music industry needs right now and why?
Risk-taking. If you’re always following what’s happening, you’ll never be what makes it happen.
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What does it mean to you to be part of the Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26, curated by Rolling Stone AU/NZ?
So much! I feel affirmed to be recognised for the work I’ve put in. I’m also honoured to share some good company; shoutout to Vv Pete and Elijah Yo.
Why do you think it’s important to support emerging Australian artists?
I think it’s important to encourage unique perspectives. My favourite artists all came from their own backgrounds, and I love exploring their histories, references and their culture. I believe that the same respect can be extended to us, and I’d love the chance to be able to share my background on a global scale. I’ve seen enough to know that’s a shared sentiment amongst my peers as well as my supporters.
For more Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26, curated by Rolling Stone AU/NZ, head to the hub.
