Thursday's announcement kick-started a day of celebration of Australian music on the iconic radio station.

Owusu released the album, which has themes of racism and depression, earlier this year.

"From early in his career, Genesis Owusu made it obvious that he was an artist that you could not pigeonhole, and no better example of this is on Smiling With No Teeth," triple j music director Nick Findlay said.

"His debut album is equal parts chaos and consistency; a hugely ambitious record that absolutely nails its vision, wrapped up in outstanding storytelling and bold, confident sonic landscapes."

Owusu said waking up to the news he had won the award was "insane".

"I definitely wasn't expecting this when me and the guys were jamming for days trying to make a body of work," he said.

"Obviously, this album was very personal to me and I was just trying to make a body of work that expressed who I was as a person and how I was feeling.

"So the fact it resonated with so many people around the world, it means a lot to me.

"Thank you all for listening. Thank you for supporting. Big thank you to triple j. Huge, huge thank you to my whole team. Ourness, Thinking Loud, the Annex, everyone. Team of genuises, all independent baby. Peace. Love you all."

It's been a big year for Owusu, who was also chosen to star in a campaign for global brand adidas.

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