Native American Music Awards - NAMA LIVE

01/17/2025

Pretendians Band (Standing Rock Sioux), features two members of the Oceti Ŝakowiŋ (7 Council Fires) of the Dakhota/Lakhota Nation, hailing from Standing Rock and Crow Creek/Sisseton tribes of South Dakota. Their original music reflects their heritage and spirit. Known for their unique sound that combines modern Indigenous perspectives with a driving, gritty rock aesthetic, Pretendians Band delivers an energetic style of conscious rock music. They’ve appeared on radio programs such as; Indigenous in Music, Native Voice One, KFAI, KBFT, KZUM, KVSC, SiriusXM Canada and many more. Despite their name, Pretendians Band are as authentic as they come and boldly craft their own unique sound and original songs. Their music simultaneously explores their cultural heritage and traditions along with the complexities of contemporary Indigenous society, with songs that address issues of identity, equality, and strength, and deliver a powerful message of resilience, pride, and hope. Pretendians Band, with its expanding group of followers and their strong reputation for their live shows, stands ready to leave an indelible mark on the realm of rock music and beyond.

01/17/2025

Paul Steward (Southeastern Pomo) is a renowned musician and accomplished professor currently living in the Santa Rosa area. In the rhythmic realms of Dance/Pop and the soul-stirring echoes of Blues, Paul Steward is a musical maestro. Paul is not just a guitarist; he’s a storyteller, seamlessly blending his traditional Pomo tribal influences with the sounds of B.B. King, Luther Allison, and a multitude of soulful artists. Paul and his father, Mr. Richard Steward originally performed as the famed father-son duo Twice As Good aka 2XG. Paul was the front person and a highly animated showman who sang in a robust soul-soaked tenor and sometimes picked with his Telecaster guitar behind his head. His dad played rhythm guitar and supplied harmony vocals. Together, they won the "Best Blues Recording" Award, from the Native American Music Awards with their album "If That's All Right With You". Paul’s father, Richard recently celebrated his 73rd birthday and announced his retirement. Richard asks his fans to continue supporting his son Paul, who will carry on their music legacy as Paul grows his solo career.

01/16/2025

Phyllis Sinclair (York Factory First Nation), is distinguished as a Lady of Conviction. Born on the western shore of Hudson's Bay in Churchill, Manitoba, Sinclair is a member of the York Factory First Nation (Kischiwaskahegan Negani Innewiseewin). She attributes her vocal style to her grandmother who calmed the children to sleep at night with her traditional high pitched, scooping hum. As a singer-songwriter, she charmingly disarms, soliciting a self-imposed metamorphosis to transform old ways of thinking into new possibilities. She aims to cultivate her work to be meaningful to herself and to those who listen. Given the Cree name, “Songkeeper Woman” by her territory elder, it’s a name that comes with a level of responsibility that she takes to heart. A singer-songwriter for over two decades, Sinclair has earned awards and accolades for her deep and affective construction of songs, carrying listeners to places she's been, and wants to go.

01/16/2025

Pete Sands grew up on the Navajo Indian Reservation. He created the Utah Navajo Health System’s COVID-19 Relief effort that delivered food, firewood and water to thousands throughout the Navajo Reservation in Utah, New Mexico. He was honored as one of Time Magazine’s Guardians of the Year and appeared on the cover along with other front-line health care workers including; Dr. Anthony Fauci. As a singer/songwriter, he has collaborated on a song with Joey Stylez called, entitled, "Save our Souls" which was nominated for a Native American Music Award. Sands was also cast in the television series "Yellowstone" and has not only had his music featured in the show, but also made several cameo appearances. Sands grew up listening to the old country songs from the likes of Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and at the same time learning the songs of his ancient culture. Sands is also the director, writer and creator of the show “Navajo Highways”, a family-friendly puppet TV show teaching Navajo language and serving as an educational tool aimed at Navajo children from Pre-K to 3rd grade. Sands said his biggest inspiration for the show was seeing how the Navajo language is dying.

01/15/2025

Amanda Shamentsut Nahanee, aka Lady Sinncere (Squamish and Nisga’a Nation), has spent most of her life as a cultural ambassador. She performed as part of the 2010 Olympic opening ceremonies and more recently, was a note-taker for the MMIWG Inquiry discussions. This experience played a significant role in creating her song, “Can’t Kill Me” which is already on its way to becoming a cultural anthem. The music video for “Can’t Kill Me” is about Indigenous resistance, cultural resilience, and survival. The song is dedicated to Murdered and Missing Women and Girls in Canada and around the world. The song has been quickly picked up by local Hip-Hop radio shows and on CBC Radio. The track also features Christee Lee, Juno-nominated artist, DJ, and producer Hussein A-SLAM Alidina. A-SLAM produced the song, along with his production team, the Global Party Starters, accompanied by traditional percussion played by Chief Ian Campbell.

01/15/2025

Joey Stylez (Cree/Metis) is a well-known name in Indigenous communities as well as with the larger public. His song “Indian Girl Driving Me Crazy” picked up the best Pop Music Video award at the Native American Music Awards. His music was recently played on the popular TV shows “Reservation Dogs” and “Mayor of Kingstown”. Joey’s music has also been featured in the Hollywood motion picture, “Wind Rive”r that delves into the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women. He has appeared as himself on Kevin Costner and Taylor Sheridan’s “Yellowstone” television series and his song “Save Your Soul” was featured in the opening episode of the explosive hit series. Joey was recognized by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) as one of the top 25 Canadian rappers of all time. He has opened for artists such as; Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent and Billy Ray Cyrus. Joey Stylez is committed to giving back to the fans, families and communities that have supported him along the way. He conducts workshops where he tells his story to youth to inspire and guide.His Ble$$ed Street Studios has a roster of Indigenous artists whom he mentors and develops as musicians.

01/14/2025

Jan Michael Looking Wolf, is an enrolled Kalapuya member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde who resides within his indigenous homelands in Oregon. Jan Michael’s musical expressions are based on the tradition of ‘One Heart’. It is a universal truth that everyone is equal regardless of the color of our skin, tribal affiliation, language spoken, income, gender, faith, nationality or personal beliefs. ‘One Heart' is the recognition of Unity through Diversity. Traveling a broad range of musical styles with 25 full length albums spanning decades, his recordings have garnered a top 10 ranking in the global radio charts and earned multiple awards including: a six-time Native American Music Awards Winner for Artist of the Year, Flutist of the Year, Record of the Year, Best Music Video (2), Best Pop Single. In addition to his own albums, Jan Michael has collaborated with other well-known artists, introducing the Native American Flute into contemporary genres such as pop, blues, rock, and hip-hop/rap. He has dedicated his life to performing, teaching, and sharing the beauty of the Native American Style Flute.

01/12/2025

How to Help or Get Help
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

The devastating California fires continue to affect the lives of families, businesses, and countless animals in its apocalyptic path. We are deeply grateful for the courage and heroism of our firefighters who risk their own lives for others. We encourage you to reach out to anyone you know that may be in its path. Please support local organizations who are working tirelessly to rescue and care for families and their animals. We are deeply grateful for anyone who is helping or volunteering in this crisis. Our hearts and prayers are with all who are impacted. Visit our webpage if you would like to help or need help https://www.nativeamericanmusicawards.com/national-association-of-native-american-music

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01/12/2025

Jah’kota (Nakota) is an artist, entrepreneur, and wealth coach. His father is from Kingston, Jamaica and his mother is Nakota, Assiniboine from Ocean Man First Nation, part of the Treaty 4 territory. His grandmother was the first Nakota language teacher at the First Nation University of Canada. He was born and raised in Winnipeg and now lives in the Očeti Šagowin territory known as the Saskatchewan prairies. Jahkota made history for being the first Indigenous hip-hop artist to drop a verse in the Senate of Canada Jah'kota has also reached number one on the Indigenous Music Countdown for his song “WOKE”. His track “Welcome to the Matriarch” was previously nominated for a Native American Music Award. Justin “Jahkota” Holness uses his Afro-Indigenous heritage as a way to amplify the message of self-determination in his music and strives to empower the welfare of people and the planet.

01/12/2025

Jace Martin (First Nation Ontario) is a Mohawk from Six Nations of The Grand River & has been in the entertainment business since he was 11 years, performing in everything from tv shows to theatre on stage. He has released eight award winning albums while touring across North America. He has shared the stage with; Sam Moore, Jeff Healey, Jonny Lang & Robbie Robertson. Jace has been featured on CBC and Much Music. His last album “Mighty” was nominated for “Adult Contemporary” Album of the Year at 2017 Independent Music Awards & “Pop Album” of the year at the 2017 Toronto Indie Music Awards. His song, “Free to Fly” debuted #35 on Billboard’s USA Mainstream Charts establishing him as a USA Billboard Mainstream Top 40 Charting artist & producer.

01/12/2025

Irv Lyons Jr is an Oneida Nation Member of the Wolf Clan who grew up on the Onondaga Nation, where his journey as a musician began. At just five years old, he taught himself to play a right-handed guitar left-handed by flipping it upside down, a technique that has become a signature of his artistry and established him as one of the most talented guitarists in Indian Country and beyond. Lyons is not only an accomplished guitarist but also a prolific songwriter with six albums to his name. His work has been featured on three film soundtracks and embraced by independent radio stations. Critics describe his music as a captivating blend of; Sting, Steely Dan, and Santana. Irv’s latest album, “Euphonious”, is a masterful collection blending Latin rock, jazz, and blues while incorporating his Native American roots. The song, “Burning Love” has been nominated for “Best Rock Recording.” Irv has graced the stage with such talents as: John Popper, Terrance Simien, Dickie Betts, Coco Montoya, Jackie Greene, and Kenny Wayne Shepard. Irv’s new release was recorded at Subcat Studios in his stomping grounds of Syracuse New York. He has previously won two Native American Music Awards; for “Group of the Year’ with his band, The Ripcords and their album ‘Unmasked (Live)’ and for ‘Best Blues Recording' with the West Side Social Club with blues-rock legend Earl Slick.

01/12/2025

Hanna Andrea (Muscogee), hails from the small town of Narvik, in Nordland county, Norway, situated north of the Arctic Circle, and has Muscogee roots from Oklahoma. Hanna’s formative years were shaped simultaneously by the breathtaking landscapes of Norway and the dynamic lifestyle of the American west. Her highly anticipated debut record "Stranded in the Middle," not only showcases her vocal versatility but also underscores her prowess as a songwriter. Tackling feelings of uncertainty, insecurity, and the quest for reassurance, Hanna encourages listeners to contemplate the challenges of life, the importance of supportive friendships, and the struggle to overcome their inner demons. Lyrical themes of self-doubt, the search for happiness, and the impact of external validation are prominent throughout her music. Despite the diverse musical landscapes presented in her album, she manages to thread a cohesive narrative of introspection, self-discovery, and the yearning for solace through connection. .andrea.official

01/12/2025

Elisapie (Inuk) is a musician, broadcaster, documentary filmmaker, activist, and actress. Elisapie's love for her Inuit homeland and culture is entrenched in her work, including four solo albums: There Will Be Stars (2009), Travelling Love (2012), The Ballad of the Runaway Girl (2018) and Inuktitut (2023). The latter earned her a second JUNO Award for Contemporary Indigenous Artist or Group of the Year. Inuktitut, consists of ten Inuktitut-language covers of classic pop and rock songs. On June 13, 2024, the Canada Post released a series of stamps titled "Indigenous Leaders". One of them is dedicated to Elisapie. This talented storyteller, writes and sings in Inuktitut, English and French, and has devoted her life to sharing and raising awareness of Inuit language, traditions and culture through her many artistic endeavours.

01/12/2025

Atsiaktonkie (Along The River) is a two-time Native American Music award winning singer/songwriter from the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation. His band, December Wind features members; Terry Terrance, Darman Terrance, Randy Furnia, Donald A. Sharrow and Atsiaktonkie/ December Wind carries messages of peace, healing, and traditional values that are divinely inspired through their “folk with feathers” genre. They play driving acoustic folk-rock infused with their Akwesasne Mohawk culture. Their new nominated CD, "Hoka" features Hall of Famer Keith Secola as producer and is their most passionate and focused material yet.

01/12/2025

Cody Coyote (Ojibwe from Matachewan First Nation), is of Ojibwe/Irish descent with his fusion of strong, profound lyricism accompanied by corresponding influential sounds. Cody is a multi-nominated, and award winning Hip-Hop/Electronic/Pop artist that commands his listeners’ attention by delivering mesmerizing performances. On World Mental Health Day, Cody Coyote released his powerful new single, “Lost”. This song is deeply personal, created to raise awareness and spark important conversations about mental health. Creating positive change in the world, this dedicated artist won the award for Ottawa's Best Hip-Hop Artist at the 2023 Ottawa Awards. He had reached number 1 on the Indigenous Music Countdown with the song, "There Tonight",, number 7 with his song “Helpless” and number One with his song “Manidoo Dewe’igan”. Outside of music, Cody Coyote is also a motivational speaker, workshop facilitator and the host of “The Beat” radio progrqam owned and operated by First People’s Radio Inc. (Ottawa/Toronto).

01/12/2025

The Buffalo Weavers (Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate) are a collaboration between Ben Weaver and Strong Buffalo (Tatanka Ohitika). Strong Buffalo, is an enrolled member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota, and a decorated Vietnam veteran. He has been writing poetry since he was in Vietnam. Buffalo Weavers, won “Best New Duo/Group” at the 20th Native American Music Awards (NAMA). Now 76, Strong Buffalo is one-half of the duo that makes up the award-winning group. Ben Weaver makes the other half. Weaver plays banjo and guitar. Buffalo’s poems focus heavily on the themes of collective responsibility for the Earth and creating supportive relationships. Buffalo believes that rather than staying silent in the face of climate destruction or resorting to anger, we should start by creating our own positive bond with the Earth. According to him, we can create the change needed to protect the planet. Traveling the world and speaking has been a way of life, working for the International Treaty Council, Indigenous Uranium Forum, and One People Foundation. Buffalo’s words have been translated in more than 17 languages, appeared in three published books, six CD’s.

01/10/2025

From Tehachapi, California, this father and son duo Robin and Caleb Hairston (Chiricahua Apache) set out to create an all Native American blues and rock band—and that’s exactly what they did. As a “band of brothers,” Pat Mata on Drums and Jeff “Cooper Hawk” Cooper on bass joined Robin and Caleb, and the Blue Mountain Tribe began creating original songs focused on Native American experiences. Since their formation, the band has received numerous accolades and has won three Native American Music Awards for Best Blues Recording, Best Live Music Video and Best Blue Video. The song “Pray for Our Planet” has earned significant global achievements as well. Written in the wake of COVID-19 after the highly-respected Chief Arvol Looking Horse asked Blue Mountain Tribe to pray for healing, the song also won Best Music Video at the INDO French International Film Festival, the Latino and Native American Film Festival, and at the Las Vegas Film Festival. Blue Mountain Tribe continues to produce award-winning music, but their mission isn’t about garnering wealth and fame. It’s all about raising awareness, helping others, and making the world a better place. Conveying themes of inspiration and love but also pain and rage, the band’s songs represent not just each member’s own Indigenous heritage but all 500+ original Nations.

01/10/2025

Guitarist/Singer/Songwriter, Gary Small is a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. His new recording is a potent blend of traditional rhythm and blues and roots rock music, coupled with his powerful songwriting regarding the many facets of this country’s indigenous peoples. Small’s soulful vocals and melodic blues guitar style are showcased thoroughly on his nominated EP. No stranger to the NAMA, Small has received four (4) awards previously over his long music career: Songwriter of the Year (2002), Best Rock Recording (2007), Male Artist (2011) and Best World Music (2016). He was also selected as the performing guitarist for the induction of legendary guitarist, Link Wray into the NAMA Hall of Fame Small was also the Wyoming International Blues Challenge champion, for three years in a row (2013-15) and competed in the International Blues Challenge held in Memphis TN. He has been featured on Wyoming Public Radio and Oregon Public Television. He has shared the stage with: Marshall Tucker Band, Molly Hatchet, Rita Coolidge, Joan Jett, Huey Lewis and many others. In previous musical line ups, Small’s featured band members from the Coyote Brothers were also former members of Santana, Joe Cocker and Diana Ross. For more information visit: www.coyotebros.net and/or www.oneearthmuic.net