A fresh collaboration of musicians hailing from Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation has come together to create a song inspired by Robbie Robertson. This musical collective, known as Allied Nations, will showcase their work at the Junos Honouring Ceremony in Hamilton later this month.
Embracing Anishinaabe values and the Haudenosaunee principles of Peace, Power, Righteousness, the group has crafted a song bearing the same title. Sadie Buck, lead vocalist of the Six Nations Women Singers, emphasized that music, dance, and spoken word are integral forms of expression for the Haudenosaunee people.
Each member of Allied Nations contributes their distinct musical style, highlighting the diversity of Indigenous music and art at this year’s Junos in Hamilton, situated on the traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee and Mississaugas.
Sadie Buck, a Seneca from Tonawanda Reservation and Six Nations of the Grand River, underscored the importance of collaborations like Allied Nations in providing opportunities for Indigenous youth to reconnect with their cultural roots through music.
The group drew inspiration from the late Robbie Robertson, a renowned Six Nations musician and former member of The Band. Jai King-Green, also a member of Allied Nations and a Juno nominee, expressed the significance of blending traditional and contemporary music, especially alongside artists who share an appreciation for traditional melodies.
The collaboration, curated by January Rogers, features a fusion of talents, with Jai King-Green contributing an original crow hop song and Sadie Buck bringing her experience singing with Robbie Robertson and performing traditional songs.
Allan Reid, the president and CEO of the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, highlighted the growth of the Juno Awards’ Honouring Ceremony since its inception in 2016. This year’s event will include performances by Allied Nations, Little Creek Singers, Siibii, and YB Nakota on March 28.
The blending of traditional and modern music in songs like “Peace, Power, Righteousness” by Allied Nations serves as a tribute to the legacy of Robbie Robertson and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities through music.