Native DJs on the rise
Electric Powwow coming to Akwesasne
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A Tribe Called Red will bring their Electric Powwow to the Brass Horse this weekend.
Music lovers in Akwesasne and especially those who follow the Native American music industry will be treated this weekend to a performance by the fast-rising all Native DJ group A Tribe Called Red.
Four DJs from different parts of Indian Country have come together to create a music blend like no other and critics are paying attention. A Tribe Called Red has been performing their “Electric Powwow” bimonthly at an Ottawa nightclub but their reputation has soared and this summer they’ll kick off a trans-Canada tour.
The four DJs – DJ Frame, Bear Witness, DJ Sheb and DJ Indian – had already been mastering the art of DJing when the idea developed for an all-Native DJ group mixing hip hop and pop beats with the sounds of powwowing.
“It basically started with me and Indian,” said DJ Frame. “We knew each other through mutual friends. We got talking one day and said we should get together and throw a party, and gather different Natives from around the city. We didn’t know what it would be. It turned into something huge.”
Soon DJ Frame and DJ Indian met Bear Witness and DJ Sheb and decided to perform and record together, combing their cultural backgrounds (they are Ojibway, Seneca and Micmac) to create a blend of music that reflects their culture in a dance atmosphere.
“We’re four Native DJs rocking together, which is pretty much not being done,” said DJ Frame. “I don’t even think there are other Native DJ crews out there. We’re fusing Native music with (club beats) and that’s not being done. We are the first to do it.”
The group’s Electric Powwow at the Babylon Nightclub in Ottawa attracts about an equal crowd of Natives and non-Natives, DJ Frame said.
“Doing the first one we were so surprised that so many Native people came that we’ve never seen before, that don’t necessarily club or go to that spot. Not that it’s just for Native people but it’s definitely a good outlet. It’s just a good vibe.”
This Saturday, Jan. 22. A Tribe Called Red will bring their Electric Powwow to the Brass Horse in Akwesasne.
“We’re obviously excited about showing everyone our music, having a good party and having a good night,” DJ Frame said.
Tickets are $15 at the door.
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