Australian rap heavyweight Hooligan Hefs enters a new chapter. Fresh off being named Spotify’s Turn Up Aus Artist of 2026 and with more than 500 million streams to his name, the Sydney-born artist gears up to release his sophomore album Sixth Sense — a project he describes as a reflection of growth, instinct and the direction he’s heading both personally and creatively.
Leading the charge is new single 6PM Somewhere, a laid-back party anthem featuring UK grime pioneer Wiley. The collaboration bridges two generations and corners of rap, while showcasing a lighter side of Sixth Sense, a nine-track release that balances high-energy records with more introspective storytelling. For Hefs, the album represents evolution without losing sight of the authenticity that built his career.
Currently taking his Year of the 6 Tour across metro and regional Australia, Hefs remains focused on connection — whether that’s through intimate live shows, collaborations that expand his reach, or music that resonates beyond the beats. We caught up with him ahead of the release of 6PM Somewhere to talk about working with Wiley, the message behind Sixth Sense, and why he believes your past doesn’t define your future.
Futuremag: The track features an international collaboration. How did that come about, and how important was it for you to bring that global perspective into the song?
Hooligan Hefs: Wiley’s an OG. He’s been around the rap game for a long time. The collaboration actually got teed up through Lazy J, so shout out to him. For me, it was about building that bridge and connecting different audiences. He’s been doing this longer than I have, so it was great to come together on a track and make something special.
Futuremag: As someone who’s been in the game for a while, what did you learn from working with him?
Hooligan Hefs: The energy. We’re both on that same wavelength when it comes to bringing high energy and good vibes. That’s something we definitely connected on.
Futuremag: 6PM Somewhere has a really laid-back, feel-good vibe. What was your mindset when you were creating it?
Hooligan Hefs: Honestly, I was just sitting back reflecting on life. It naturally turned into something that felt fun and carefree. At the end of the day, 6PM Somewhere is basically another excuse to have a drink in the morning. (Laughs.)
Futuremag: What makes this track stand out from the other singles you’ve released from Sixth Sense so far?
Hooligan Hefs: Sixth Sense is full of bars and straight-up rap records. I wanted to switch it up a bit and bring some party energy into the mix. This track adds a different flavour to the project and gives listeners something a little lighter.
Futuremag: You’ve described Sixth Sense as showing an evolution in your sound and storytelling. Where do you think fans will hear that growth the most?
Hooligan Hefs: I think they’ll hear it right from the intro. It pretty much sets the tone for everything. It explains where we’re at now, the moves we’re making, and shows growth and progression. It’s about focusing on success, not getting caught up in gossip or negativity.
Futuremag: Out of the nine tracks on the album, which one means the most to you personally?
Hooligan Hefs: Probably Sixth Sense itself. That track really sums up where I’m at right now — both personally and musically. It reflects the direction we’re heading and the growth that’s happened along the way.
Futuremag: When people finish listening to the album, what’s the main message you hope they take away from it?
Hooligan Hefs: That there’s more to life. Go out there and show the world what you’ve got. Don’t let your past define you. There’s always room to grow, evolve and create your own future.
Futuremag: You’re taking the album on the road with the Year of the Six Tour. What’s different about these live shows compared to your previous tours?
Hooligan Hefs: A lot of these shows are in regional areas, and those communities don’t always get as many live events. The crowds are smaller, which means the shows are a lot more intimate. You get more opportunities to connect directly with the fans, and I really enjoy that.
Futuremag: It’s great to see artists making the effort to tour regional Australia.
Hooligan Hefs: Absolutely. To be making Australian music and living off it in this day and age is a blessing. Being able to take that music to places that don’t always get major tours is something I’m grateful for.
Futuremag: Without giving too much away, what can fans expect from this run of shows?
Hooligan Hefs: Same as always — high energy, a few unreleased tracks, and plenty of chances to grab a photo with me after the show.
Futuremag: You were recently named Spotify’s Turn Up Australia artist for 2026. Huge congratulations. What does that recognition mean to you?
Hooligan Hefs: It means a lot. Spotify was one of the first places my music ever landed, so to now be recognised as a Turn Up Australia artist is massive. I’ve seen other artists go through the program and do amazing things afterwards, so I’m really grateful for the opportunity.
Futuremag: Which Australian artists do you think deserve more support right now?
Hooligan Hefs: Honestly, anyone out there having a crack. Anyone making music and putting themselves out there. It’s not easy, so respect to everyone doing it.
Futuremag: Finally, if Sixth Sense is someone’s introduction to Hooligan Hefs, what do you hope they understand about you as an artist?
Hooligan Hefs: I hope people can relate to it. I want listeners to connect with the music on a deeper level — not just through the beats, but through the words and the message behind it. That’s what I’m really trying to push with this project.
