Of Tribes and Telecasters: Indigenous Peoples Rock!
The popular music of North America is seasoned with the blood and sweat of every race and nationality: Anglos, Africans, Hispanics, Jews…rockers of all ethnic mixes. But what about the native peoples of North America? Many rock fans know that Cher, Rita Coolidge, and Robbie Robertson have native roots. But when was the last time you heard anything about a rock band comprised predominantly of indigenous peoples from the U.S. or Canada? Well, they're out there! Some have been making music for decades; others are new to the scene. And while many aren't headliners (yet), they're recording, touring, winning awards, and selling lots of music online. Thanks to YouTube and iTunes I've recently become familiar with a number of talented bands that are really catching fire.