About Us

Donkeyman Records is an independent label and creative hub based in Melbourne, built on rebellion, authenticity, and the belief that artists don’t need to bend to the rules of traditional music industry gatekeepers. We run two professional recording studios and a dedicated creative space, offering everything from recording and mixing to video production, events, and mentorship. Every part of Donkeyman Records is designed to give artists the tools, support, and freedom to create on their own terms.

More than a studio, we’re a community. Donkeyman Records hosts open mics, showcases, and workshops to connect emerging talent with opportunities and audiences. Our mission is simple: empower independent artists to build their own careers, release music with impact, and stay true to their voice. Whether you’re stepping into the studio, hitting the stage, or picking up a piece of merch, you’re part of the movement that keeps independent music alive.

Donkeyman is the raw, unapologetic rap-rock project of Melbourne producer and multi-instrumentalist Simon. Armed with guitar riffs, heavy beats, and sharp humor, Donkeyman blends grit with groove to create music that’s as rebellious as it is authentic. Known for pushing boundaries in both sound and attitude, he embodies independence and self-reliance, proving that artists can thrive without a major label machine.

Beyond the music, Donkeyman is a persona—bold, funny, sometimes rude, always real. He’s “el gordito,” unafraid to clown on himself while delivering tracks that hit hard. Through Donkeyman Records, he’s turned his personal project into a blueprint for independent artistry: recording, mixing, producing, and performing while building a platform for others to do the same. Donkeyman isn’t just an artist; he’s the example of what happens when you build your own lane and own it completely.

Gabriella, known artistically as Reality Never Dies, is the soul force at the heart of Donkeyman Records. As an artist, she weaves Neo-soul, hip-hop, and raw storytelling into timeless performances that blur the line between stage and audience. Her music is pure connection—vulnerable, powerful, and deeply human—making her one of the most compelling voices to rise from Naarm’s East and South-East.

At Donkeyman Records, Gabriella is more than just a performer; she is the right hand of the label, handling artist relations with the same empathy and depth she brings to her music. She supports and guides talent through the creative process, ensuring that every artist who walks through the doors feels seen, understood, and empowered. Her dual role as both an artist and a mentor makes her an essential pillar of the Donkeyman community, grounding the label’s vision in authenticity and human connection.