In a groundbreaking venture that bridges the traditional with the contemporary, Mattmac has released a new collaborative album showcasing the talents of 15 Indigenous artists. This album, a tapestry of cultural richness and modern soundscapes, is a testament to the power of music as a unifying force and a medium for storytelling. Each track on the album features a different Indigenous artist, offering a platform for their unique voices and stories.
Canadian singer-songwriter Tia Wood has graced the music world with her unique voice and poignant storytelling in her latest single and Alberta-filmed music video, “Dirt Roads.” Known for her unique blend of country, folk, and indigenous influences, Wood’s newest release continues to build on her reputation as a compelling and authentic artist.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJUl_voev0k
In addition to her musical talents, Wood is also known for her activism and advocacy for indigenous rights. She uses her platform to raise awareness and promote understanding, making her not just a musician, but a powerful voice for change. “Dirt Roads” reflects this commitment, weaving together personal and cultural stories that resonate on multiple levels. For fans of genuine, emotionally rich music, “Dirt Roads” is a must-listen. Tia Wood has proven that she is an artist with a profound gift for capturing the human experience through music.
The Indigenous Hip-Pop sensation from the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, Stella Standingbear has unleashed her latest masterpiece. Her highly-anticipated new single “Paradise,” from the upcoming “Moonstruck” EP, was released on Friday, June 7th, 2024, and is already making waves worldwide with distribution by Sony Music Entertainment.
“Paradise” has delivered on its promise of feel-good vibes that get listeners moving. Crafted at ABX Studios in Salt Lake City, the track features the expert touch of producer Adam Banx, along with composers TipTip and Jean-Saint Laurent. The accompanying music video, directed by Anthony Ryan Johnson in Las Vegas and styled by Stefany Marie, is a visual feast that perfectly complements the vibrant energy of the song.
Stella Standingbear is celebrated for her powerful voice, captivating performances, and unwavering commitment to bringing Indigenous culture to the forefront of the music industry. Her new single “Paradise” is no exception and has transported listeners to a world of joy and celebration. This release marks another milestone in her exhilarating musical journey.
Juneau’s picturesque streets and scenic waterfront were alive with the sights and sounds of vibrant cultural expression during Celebration 2024. Held from June 5th to June 8th, this biannual gathering brought together thousands of participants and spectators to honor and celebrate the rich traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. This year’s Celebration was a resounding success, marked by high attendance, captivating performances, and a deep sense of community.
Celebration 2024 kicked off with a grand opening ceremony at Centennial Hall, setting the tone for four days of cultural immersion and festivity. Elders, community leaders, and distinguished guests delivered inspiring speeches, highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating Native heritage. The ceremony was punctuated by a powerful performance from a mass dance group, whose synchronized movements and vibrant regalia drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Dance, the heart of Celebration, was showcased in spectacular fashion. Groups from various clans and communities took the stage, each performance a unique blend of traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. The intricate regalia, adorned with beadwork, feathers, and cedar, told their own stories of heritage and artistry. Highlights included a mesmerizing performance by the Mount St. Elias Dancers and the electrifying rhythms of the Ketchikan-based Haida group, which had the crowd on its feet.
A diverse array of workshops and panel discussions provided attendees with opportunities to delve deeper into Native arts, crafts, and contemporary issues. Hands-on workshops on weaving, carving, and beadwork were especially popular, offering participants the chance to learn directly from master artisans. Panels on language revitalization and cultural preservation drew large crowds, fostering important conversations about the future of Native traditions and identities.
The Grand Parade, a highlight of Celebration, transformed downtown Juneau into a moving tapestry of cultural pride. Dance groups, artists, and community members marched in vibrant regalia, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the harmonious sounds of traditional songs. Spectators lined the streets, cheering and celebrating the diverse expressions of Native identity on display. The parade was a powerful visual and auditory spectacle, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.
The canoe events, a tribute to the maritime heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples, were another standout feature of Celebration 2024. Traditional canoes, expertly crafted and paddled by teams from various communities, glided through the waters around Juneau. The canoe events not only showcased impressive paddling skills, but also highlighted the deep connection between Indigenous peoples and their coastal environment.
The Art and Craft Market was a bustling hub of activity, featuring an impressive array of handmade items by Native artists. From intricate jewelry and textiles to stunning carvings and prints, the market offered visitors a unique opportunity to purchase authentic Native art. Many artists reported brisk sales, and the market served as an important platform for showcasing and preserving traditional craftsmanship.
Celebration 2024 was marked by a strong sense of community and inclusivity. People of all backgrounds came together to participate in and learn about Southeast Alaska Native cultures. The event fostered greater understanding and appreciation of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian traditions, creating a welcoming environment where everyone could experience the richness of Native heritage.
As the final day of Celebration 2024 came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of pride and connection to their cultural roots. The event not only honored the past but also looked forward to a future where Indigenous traditions continue to thrive and inspire.
Celebration 2024 in Juneau was a remarkable success, a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unity of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. As the echoes of drums and songs linger in the hearts of those who attended, there is already anticipation for the next Celebration in 2026, promising yet another opportunity to honor and celebrate the enduring legacy of Southeast Alaska’s Native cultures.
Creative Director, Film Director, Writer, Photographer, and visual artist, Tomas Karmelo has released a new single “Sueño Park.” His work focuses on creating opportunities for healing by embracing Indigenous teachings and knowledge systems in his expressions and collaborations. Raised by traditional healers, storytellers, and innovators he views the world through a trauma and healing-informed lens in a process he describes as creating visual medicine. In an Instagram post about the single, Tomas revealed the meaning behind the new track.
“This is a snippet of the track “Sueño Park,” a song about the place where I was born and raised in West Phoenix as well as surrounding areas. The song is one of several cuts from my first music project that I’ve been slowly developing. Damn, can’t believe I’m finally saying that after years of procrastination, self-doubt, intense workload, immense blessings paired with back to back hardships, I’m diving in.
As a kid I would jump in cyphers, perform in talent shows, and loved bringing smiles to people’s faces through laughter, dancing, and music. I was crackin jokes one moment then writing poems the next moment. Most of all I would spend hours on hours talking to my elders, cheering them up, and making sure they were solid. They taught me how to not take myself too seriously and to find beauty in life every day.
When a dear friend Eric, who taught me how to beat box, passed away when we were kids I felt an even stronger pull to be a student of hip hop in his memory. From his hair nets, jars of tres flores, and starched up Ben Davis shirts my brotha stayed looking firme. More than anything, he looked out for our squad and made sure to show love.
This song is produced, written, mixed, and mastered by yours truly and you already your boy is community made.
I think of the people closest to me telling jokes, sharing songs, and holding space for one another. Being a story teller can be fulfilling and healing in every art form, but especially in music. Songs helped us dearly in the highs and the lows.
Thank you to my parents, my family, my friends who have taken time to hear me out, to lift me up, and call me in when I was down. Thank you to my loving wife @sweetsib, for being the unrelenting force of love, brilliance, and resilience to me, Haseya, and so many others.
To the land, loved ones, and communities who make this place beautiful, matétera-bá, chiokoe utte’esia, gracias, thank you.”