Native Musicians in the Groove

From the melodic sounds of a classical guitar or the wailing of an electric guitar to country music and punk rock, these musicians deliver. They offer a wide selection of musical styles as diverse as the music industry itself. Read about the lives of these outstanding performers who represent the fresh new sounds from Native American today. The music of these talented artists transcends borders and cultures to speak directly to the hearts and minds of listeners. But it was not always easy for them to reach their goals.

Shane Yellowbird (Cree) - Canadian country recording artist
Mary Youngblood (Seminole/Aleut) - Flutist
Blackfire (Navajo) - Punk rock and traditional Dine’ (Navajo) music
Jamie Coon (Creek/Seminole) - Singer/songwriter
Gabriel Ayala (Pascua Yaqui) - Classical guitarist
Mato Nanji (Nakota Sioux) - Lead guitarist and singer for Indigenous
Four Rivers Drum - Vibrant drum group
Leela Gilday (Dene) - Folk artist
Michael Bucher (Cherokee) - Composer and vocalist
Crystal Shawanda (Ojibwe) - Canadian vocalist/songwriter

The Native Trailblazer Series shines a spotlight on the contributions of Native Americans and First Nation Canadians who provide inspirational role models for young readers.

High interest text and easy to read format is ideal for teen and adult literacy programs.