Renowned Indigenous hip-hop duo Snotty Nose Rez Kids are back with their much-anticipated album, Red Future. Known for their potent lyricism and unapologetic exploration of Indigenous identity, this new release promises to push boundaries both musically and socially.
Red Future dives deep into the complexities of contemporary Indigenous life, tackling issues such as systemic racism, environmental degradation, and cultural preservation. The album showcases their signature blend of sharp bars, infectious beats, and cultural commentary, offering a raw yet uplifting vision of a future that centers Indigenous voices.
With tracks that balance heavy political themes with the group’s trademark humor and energy, Red Future is a rallying cry for change, but also a celebration of resilience. Featuring collaborations with notable artists from across the hip-hop and Indigenous music scenes, the album is a testament to Snotty Nose Rez Kids’ growth and commitment to their craft.
Nuxalk Radio proudly presents its debut album, Nusximta, in celebration of the station’s 10th anniversary. Released under the Nuxalk Radio Records label, this album is entirely in the Nuxalk language, marking a significant milestone in the station’s mission to preserve and revitalize the Nuxalk language. With only four people speaking Nuxalk as their first language today, the album represents a powerful effort to inspire the Nuxalkmc (Nuxalk people) to create and share music in their own tongue.
Nusximta showcases the talents of various Nuxalk Radio hosts and community members, from hip hop artists to young musicians, all contributing their voices to a collective cultural renaissance. The album features an eclectic mix of performers, including Qwaxw, Rollah Mack, Nuskmata (Jacinda Mack), Ximana Nola Mack, Staltmc Wilhpun, the talented young duo Ts’ikwalhm and K’ipt, and pianist Coastyn Hall. Montreal-based producer David Hodges provided guidance, while artist and multi-instrumentalist Milan André Boronell handled the production. The vision was brought to life by Nuxalk Radio’s co-founder and Executive Producer, Slts’lani (Banchi Hanuse).
As a platform for music entirely in the Nuxalk language, Nuxalk Radio offers a wide range of genres performed by artists from ages 8 to 67, all from the remote coastal village of Bella Coola, Nuxalk. The station, located in Q’umk’uts’, Bella Coola, has always championed the power of music as a medium for language learning, creating a vibrant space for cultural expression and community connection.
Meet the Musicians:
Qwaxw: Co-founder and technical manager of Nuxalk Radio, a former Chief Councilor, and a Registered Professional Forester.
Nuskmata (Jacinda Mack): An Indigenous land and water protector, singer-songwriter, and passionate language learner.
Tatala: A Nuxalk Radio host and language coordinator dedicated to promoting the Nuxalk language.
Ximximana: Co-host of Nuxalk language-learning programs, advocating for language preservation through radio.
Ximana Nola Mack: Chef and caterer, blending ayurvedic cooking with traditional Nuxalk foods.
Ts’ikwalhm and K’ipt: Eight-year-old best friends, budding musicians, and cultural ambassadors.
Staltmc Wilhpun: A Nuxalk language champion, former tribal council director, and a trailblazer as the first Indigenous woman in Canada to become a journeyman carpenter.
Rollah Mack: Hip-hop artist with a decade of experience, also known as Nuxalk Radio host Q’xta.
Coastyn Hall: A 14-year-old classical musician and composer, already working on his third piano concerto.
Indigenous Hip-hop artist Sean Wallace, better known by his stage name SEAN1NE, is back with a powerful new project, Pretty Paint. Hailing from the Cheyenne, Crow, and Blackfeet Nations, SEAN1NE continues to infuse his unique cultural heritage into the vibrant hip-hop world.
Pretty Paint, released on August 9th, 2024, showcases SEAN1NE’s evolution as an artist, blending his signature sound with new, dynamic elements. The album consists of three hard-hitting tracks: BIG TAL, ROCK N ROLL, and SHINE.
Each track reflects SEAN1NE’s journey, delivering powerful lyrics and beats that resonate with his roots and the broader hip-hop community. SEAN1NE’s music has always been a platform for storytelling, and Pretty Paint is no exception, offering a deep, introspective look into his experiences and perspectives.
Fans and new listeners can dive into Pretty Paint to experience SEAN1NE’s latest work, where traditional Indigenous sounds meet contemporary hip hop, creating a truly unique listening experience.
Indigenous hip-hop artist Mic Jordan continues to make waves with the release of his latest single, “Mind Like Mine.” This track is more than just music; it’s a testament to the strength and resilience that defines the Indigenous experience in today’s world.
“Mind Like Mine” dives deep into the journey of self-discovery and the fight to maintain cultural identity in the face of modern challenges. Mic Jordan’s lyrics, infused with the wisdom of his ancestors, speak to the universal struggle of staying grounded and true to oneself. The song reflects the ongoing journey of healing and empowerment that resonates within Indigenous communities.
With a beat that blends contemporary sounds with subtle nods to traditional rhythms, “Mind Like Mine” is a bridge between worlds, embodying both the spirit of his heritage and the reality of today’s musical landscape. Produced by [Producer’s Name], the track is a perfect showcase of Mic Jordan’s talent for storytelling, blending his unique voice with a powerful message of resilience and hope.
For Mic Jordan, music is more than just a creative outlet; it’s a way to honor his roots and inspire the next generation. “Mind Like Mine” is a call to listeners to reflect on their own paths, to embrace their identities, and to never lose sight of where they come from.
This single is a celebration of Indigenous strength and a reminder of the importance of staying connected to our cultural foundations. Available now on all major streaming platforms, “Mind of Mine” is a must-listen for those seeking music that not only moves the body but also touches the soul.
Stella Standingbear, the Indigenous Hip-Pop sensation from the Pine Ridge Reservation, recently dropped her latest single, “Let’s Ride.” This R&B and Hip-Hop-infused track from her newly released EP, “Moonstruck,” with distribution handled by Sony Music Entertainment.
Stella Standingbear is celebrated for her powerful vocals, dynamic performances, and dedication to highlighting Indigenous culture in the music industry. Her debut single, “Home Runs,” became a viral hit on TikTok, topping the NCI FM Indigenous Music Countdown on SiriusXM.
With over a million streams across all platforms, Stella’s influence continues to soar. She’s been nominated for three Indigenous Hip-Hop Awards and made history as the first Lakota artist to win two. Stella has performed alongside notable artists such as Kirko Bangz, Montana of 300, Futuristic, KYLE, and Bizzy Bone, and has earned the support of industry heavyweights like Queen Latifah, Waka Flocka Flame, and Paul Wall.
Aysanabee and Ruby Waters deliver a dynamic reinterpretation of Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games” in their new duet, released today as an Amazon Music Original. This collaboration reunites the busy artists, who first connected while touring together in 2023.
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.
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.
