Mohawk singer Shawnee Kish expresses her excitement when fans appreciate her song “No Evil,” featured on the popular series “North of North” airing on APTN, CBC, and Netflix. The energetic pop rock track is showcased in the third episode of the show, which follows the story of Siaja, a modern Inuk woman navigating motherhood and a new job post a public separation from her marriage.
Kish, a Juno Award nominee for contemporary Indigenous artist or group, is delighted that her music is reaching diverse audiences through a show focused on female empowerment. The show’s soundtrack also highlights two other Juno nominees, the Inuit throat singing duo PIQSIQ and the Haisla hip-hop pair Snotty Nose Rez Kids.
The global exposure provided by “North of North” is praised by Indigenous artists and industry insiders for allowing them to share authentic narratives, educate about Indigenous culture, and pave the way for future artists. The series features a blend of pop, rock, and throat singing, along with covers of popular songs in Inuktitut, adding depth and diversity to the music selection.
Stacey Aglok MacDonald, co-creator of “North of North,” emphasizes the show’s Indigenous leadership and the significance of featuring artists who resonate with the storyline. The collaboration with Netflix has expanded the show’s reach to a broader audience, fostering excitement about including Indigenous talents in the soundtrack.
The Juno Awards have increasingly recognized Indigenous artists in non-Indigenous categories, showcasing the evolving blend of traditional and contemporary music. Artists like Snotty Nose Rez Kids, PIQSIQ, William Prince, and Crystal Shawanda have received nominations, reflecting the diverse talent within the Indigenous music scene.
Indigenous music advocates like Alan Greyeyes stress the importance of recognition both within Indigenous categories and mainstream platforms. The continuous creation and performance of Indigenous music contribute to cultural revitalization and offer a platform for meaningful storytelling about Indigenous history and resilience.
Melody McKiver, an Anishinaabe musician and academic, highlights the role of music in facilitating conversations about historical trauma and cultural resilience. Indigenous music, deeply embedded in Canada’s cultural landscape, will continue to evolve and inspire future generations of Indigenous artists to share their stories and experiences authentically.
