Nyunbal/Bundjalung hip-hop artist Stewart Kapeen AKA STOOZ, has released his debut single 'Hold It Down'.

The 19-year-old from Ballina, NSW, said the track reflects his life and family experiences.

"This story has a lot of meaning for me," STOOZ said.

"It was difficult to put it in a song, to be honest. It's really my life story – these lyrics come from a deep and special place.

"It's about family struggles and becoming a better person - not just for me but for my whole mob."

The single was produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Angus Hawkey, known professionally as AGNUS BEATS, who has also worked with The Kid Laroi, JK-47, Jay Orient and Allday.

His production gives the track a modern sound while allowing STOOZ's storytelling to be the focus.

The music video was filmed on Nyangbal/Bundjalung Country in Ballina, surrounded by STOOZ's family.

It was directed by Desert Pea Media Co-Founder and Creative Director Toby Finlayson, who also worked as director of photography, editor, mentor, and co-writer.

Finlayson said the video was built around STOOZ's personal journey.

"The film itself is a representation of Stooz's story - anchored in his connection to family, to Country, and his ambition to be a positive role model for his people," he said.

Bundjalung/Yaegl woman Jannali Doncaster worked as co-writer and mentor, adding cultural guidance to the project.

Film editor Andy Finn supported post-production, while Desert Pea Media General Manager Scott Large designed the accompanying visuals.

Desert Pea Media is a non-profit organisation that has delivered more than 200 Indigenous music and media projects in 90 communities across Australia over the past 23 years.

The organisation has won six National Indigenous Music Awards and its work has attracted more than six million views on YouTube.

'Hold It Down' is the first release from the Desert Pea Media Futures program, funded by Create NSW.

Over 12 months, the initiative has mentored four emerging Indigenous creatives, helping them expand professional skills, deepen creative practice, and include new wellbeing approaches in their work.

The program aims to strengthen pathways for the next generation of Indigenous voices in the music industry.