Celebrating National Indigenous History Month Through Music and Dance
For nearly 20 years, June has been a significant time in Canada as it marks National Indigenous History Month. What began as a grassroots letter campaign in Regina has blossomed into a nationwide celebration honoring First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This momentous month encourages Canadians to reflect on the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous communities across the country.
One of the most vibrant ways to celebrate is through music, and CBC Music’s radio show Reclaimed, hosted by Jarrett Martineau, is taking this to new heights. A select group of Indigenous artists has been invited to create unique DJ sets, transforming June into a lively dance party that showcases the depth and diversity of Indigenous cultures throughout Turtle Island.
The Power of Dance and Music
As Shub, one of the featured DJs, emphasizes, “We’ve gotten through so many years of not being able to show our culture and be proud of it.” In today’s world, the celebration of Indigenous cultures through various art forms—including music, food, and storytelling—holds immense importance. It creates a space for expression, allowing both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Listeners can expect to hear a mix of genres as Shub, DJ Kookum, and Handsome Tiger share their musical journeys and selections. Each week in June, a new mix will be available on demand, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indigenous soundscapes.
Shub: The Pioneer of Powwow Step
Shub has made his mark in the world of Indigenous electronic music for over a decade. Originally part of the Juno-winning group A Tribe Called Red—now known as Halluci Nation—Shub has since carved a unique path as a solo artist. He is particularly celebrated for creating “powwow step,” a genre that fuses traditional powwow drumming with the energetic elements of dubstep.
Inspired by the 140 B.P.M. rhythm of dubstep, which resonated with the grass dance songs from his childhood, Shub released his debut EP, PowWowStep, in 2016. He believes it’s crucial to share these cultural roots with a broader audience. Furthermore, in his recent albums, Heritage (Part One) and Heritage (Part Two), he expands this fusion with collaborations across multiple genres, showcasing the talents of various Indigenous musicians.
In his Reclaimed mix, Shub highlights a wide array of Indigenous artists, aiming to spotlight diverse musical expressions that range from dubstep to hip-hop. He includes influential tracks by artists such as Stella Standingbear and music from his own son, producer JRow, underlining the importance of familial connections in music.
DJ Kookum: Breaking Barriers
DJ Kookum represents a new wave of Indigenous DJs who are making strides in the music world. Hailing from the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, her entry into the DJ scene came after moving away and completing film school. She noticed a lack of representation for Indigenous women in the rave culture and decided to change that narrative.
Teaching herself how to DJ using online tutorials, Kookum spent two years honing her craft. Today, she plays a diverse array of genres, including pop, EDM, soul, R&B, and hip-hop. With over a decade of professional experience, Kookum takes pride in promoting Indigenous artists in her sets, emphasizing the importance of representation in the music industry.
Her Reclaimed mix reflects her journey and includes notable Indigenous musicians, showcasing the versatility and creativity within the community. Kookum’s goal is to inspire others while creating music that connects with her heritage.
Handsome Tiger: Bridging Cultural Divides
Handsome Tiger, also known as Hussein El Namer, brings a unique perspective to the table with his “decolonial bass” sound. As an Anishinaabe Métis and North African artist, he seeks to bridge gaps between Indigenous cultures and global music genres. His body of work informs and celebrates his background while integrating traditional powwow elements.
With a decade of experience in the West Coast bass music scene, Handsome Tiger prioritizes music creation over DJing. His philosophy centers around weaving traditional sounds with contemporary beats, a practice evident in his recent albums, First People and First People II.
During his performance on Reclaimed, Handsome Tiger curates an experience that reflects his eclectic influences, featuring tracks from various Indigenous artists. He aims to use his platform to uplift fellow creators, showcasing Indigenous stories and music on an international stage.
The Importance of Representation
The collaborative efforts of Shub, DJ Kookum, and Handsome Tiger serve as a reminder of the transformative power of music in the celebration of National Indigenous History Month. Through their art, they inspire dialogue, encourage recognition of Indigenous contributions to contemporary culture, and promote a platform that celebrates Indigenous voices.
By sharing their mixes on Reclaimed, they embrace this month not only as a time for reflection but as a vibrant celebration of culture, identity, and resilience. Each mix not only highlights the unique sounds of Indigenous artists but also fosters a greater understanding of the complexities and richness of Indigenous histories in Canada.
Throughout June, as listeners tune in, they can expect to discover the dynamic and diverse musical landscape crafted by these gifted artists—an embodiment of pride, creativity, and community spirit. The celebration continues, inviting everyone to join the dance and appreciate the vibrant cultures that enrich Turtle Island.
