“A Native American music revival has been taking shape, with releases, sales and airplay increasing substantially... and the New York-based Native American Music Association have lobbied the recording academy for a Native American category since the mid-1990s. ”
— Knight Ridder Newspapers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9/20/19
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NOMINEE ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE 19TH ANNUAL NATIVE AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS IN NIAGARA FALLS, NEW YORK WES STUDI AND MICKIE JAMES TO HOST September 21, 2019 – New York, NY. Nominations in 33 categories for the 19th Annual Native American Music Awards (NAMA) have been announced. These nominations reflect the highest quality of recordings by music makers released in the past year throughout North America and were selected by the combined votes of the 150 Advisory Board member committee of the Native American Music Association. The 19th Annual Native American Music Awards will be held on Saturday November 2, 2019 at the Seneca Niagara Casino & Resort in Niagara Falls, New York. Tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets. Actor Wes Studi (Cherokee) and Pro-Wrestler Mickie James (Powhatan) will host the event. Both Studi and James are also musicians with James singing Country music and Studi performing the Blues. As a member of the WWE and TNA, Mickie James is a nine-time champion, which is a national record and is also the only female to hold the WWE Women's, WWE Divas, and TNA Knockouts Championships in wrestling history. Wesley Studi is an American actor and film producer who has won critical acclaim and awards, particularly for his portrayal of Native Americans in film. He has been a consistent favorite among the Awards audience as a special guest and host. This October, Wes will become the first Native American to receive an Oscar, as he will be honored with an Academy Honorary Award. Featured live music performances will include: DJ Shub (Mohawk), a former member of a Tribe Called Red, Navajo revivalists Callie & Ellson Bennett, leading female singers Shelley Morningsong (Northern Cheyenne) First Nation's Kelly Derrickson, New York's Joanne and Leah Shenandoah (Oneida) as well as The Cody Blackbird Band, (Dakota, Cherokee, Navajo), NDN Cars' Keith Secola (Anishinabe) and The Ed Koban House Band with more to be announced. Both new and established artists share the list of total nominations throughout a diverse array of 33 varied music categories. This year's new music trends arrived at full strength evidenced by several new artists dominating the nominations list, particularly from the Navajo Nation and Lakota Country. Hip Hop R&B Singer, Shon Denay (Oglala Lakota) made an impressive debut with, "On The Rocks" earning her a full five nominations including; Debut Artist, Best Female Artist, Best Pop Music Recording. Also at the top of the list are traditional based newcomers; Stl'atl'imx & Friends (St'at'imc), and The Spiritual Warriors (Interior Salish Lil'wat) wifh four nominations each as well as Clark Tenakhongva (Hopi) with three nods. Previous NAMA winners Vince Redhouse (Navajo) and brother and sister rock duo, Sihasin (Navajo) both took five nominations each with Sihasin earning an extra nod for their work with American producer, Ed Stasium (Ramones, Talking Heads, Motorhead, the Smithereens, Living Colour). Flutist Calvin J. Standing Bear (Sicangu, Oglala) who released three full-length recordings received a total of five nominations as did Connor Chee (Navajo) who acquired multiple nods between his video "Gila River", new project Wildcat Peak and his prior work with The Cody Blackbird Band (Dakota/Cherokee). Quechua instrumentalist Alexandro Querevalu' earned three nominations for his new New Age soundscape, "Clouds of Sunset", as did folk-based artist and language teacher, Alex FireThunder (Oglala) for Makȟóčhe Kiŋ Theȟíla (Love For The Land). Rap Hip Hop artists dominated more than before than ever with Night Shield (Rosebud Sioux) leading with three nominations, and Artson (Tarahumara), Blue Flamez (Warm Springs/Nez Perce), Def-i (Navajo), G Precious (Ohkay Owingeh), David Lopezz (Comanche/Tarahumara), Nick Lone (Seneca), Crimespree (Rosebud), Bigg B (Warm Springs/Piaute), Just Jamez (Colville) and Carradine Billie (Seminole) all with at least one nod each. A return of the classics are also featured among the nominations list with recordings from; Joanne Shenandoah (Oneida), Shelly Morningsong (Northern Cheyenne), the late Joseph FireCrow (Northern Cheyenne), Wade Fernandez (Menominee) and multiple Grammy winner, Country artist Marty Stuart (Choctaw). Other leading contenders include: Crazy Flute (Cherokee), ambient rockers KatsuK (Chickasaw), female singers Koli Kohler (Hoopa), Marcia Chum (Cree), flutists Patrick Therrien (Anishinaabe), Larry Redhouse and the jazzy Larry Redhouse Quartet (Navajo). Numerous music videos spawned the continuing tradition of adding new categories to honor performance and narrative videos as well as the original conceptual category plus a new Best Rap Hip Hop Music Video. Current event messages are also featured among the nominated music initiatives with a song about the sacred Mauna Kea in Hawaii by native Hawaiian singer/songwriter/protector Hawane Rios' with "Directions" featuring Nahko (Apache) who also earned his own nomination for Best Male Artist. The missing and murdered indigenous women crisis (MMIW) is covered in Joanne Shenandoah's 'Missing You' music video as well as from the pow wow drum group, Young Spirit's (Frog Lake Cree First Nation) album entitled, "Red Dress Special". General Public voting is now open. To vote, visit the VOTE NOW page of the Awards website or by clicking on the ballot link: VOTING BALLOT. Final public voting results will determine the winner of each category. Music tracks from all nominees are also featured on the Awards' website at www.NAMALIVE.com.
19th Annual Official List of NomineesArtist of the Year Bear Fox (Mohawk) - Life Blanket Murphy Platero (Navajo) - Butterflies, Horses and Guitars Shelley Morningsong (Northern Cheyenne) - Simple Truth Tonemah (Lumbee) - Red Dirt Remark Vince Redhouse (Navajo) - A Distant Star Wade Fernandez (Menominee) - Journey of the Heart Group or Duo of the Year Crazy Flute (Cherokee) - We Belong To The Music Cree Confederation (Cree/Various) - Medicine Horse Larry Redhouse Quartet (Navajo) - Naomi’s Dance Sihasin (Navajo) - Fight Like A Woman The Cody Blackbird Band and Connor Chee (Dakota, Cherokee, Navajo) - Live From White Horse Black Mountain Young Spirit (Plains Cree/Various) - Red Dress Special/Love, Life, Round Dance New Artist or Debut Artist of the Year Alex FireThunder (Lakota) - Makȟóčhe Kiŋ Theȟíla (Love For The Land) D Johnson (Navajo) - K Town David Lopez (Comanche/Tarahumara) - If I Won The Lottery Def-i (Navajo) - Dream Trails Matt James (Ojibway) - A Miner’s Prayer Shon Denay (Oglala Lakota) - On The Rocks New or Debut Duo/Group of the Year Innastate (Jicarilla Apache/Jemez Pueblo/Santa Domingo Pueblo/Isleta Pueblo) - Verde Niijii Singers and Ogiichidaa Singers (Lac du Flambeau Ojibwa) - Hear Our Songs Stl’atl’imx & Friends (St’at’imc)- The Kindness Project The Spiritual Warriors (Interior Salish Lil’wat) - Ancestors War Bonnet (Ojibwe) - The Ghost Dance Wildcat Peak (Navajo) - Awake Best Female Artist Blanca Iris Acuna (Taino) - Poets Ocean Desja Eagle Tail (Crow/GrosVentre) - What Do I Got To Do Jiiniikwe Medicine Bird (Bay Mills Anishinabe, Hunkpapa Lakota) -Destiny/Infinite Web Koli Kohler (Hoopa, Yurok, Karuk) - How I Am Marcia Chum (Cree) - Undone Shon Denay (Oglala Lakota) - On The Rocks Flutist of the Year Calvin J. Standing Bear (Sicungu, Oglala) - Eagle Dances With The Wind Dail Dragonfly Martin (Huron, Wyandott, MicMac) - Enter The Circle/ In The Spirit of Peace Holly Harris of Painted Raven (Cherokee/Sioux) - Sacred Spiral Jack Flute Holland of Crazy Flute (Cherokee) - We Belong To The Music Vince Redhouse (Navajo) - A Distant Star Wade Fernandez (Menominee)- Journey of the Heart Best Male Artist Herman Cody (Navajo) - Life On The Rez Joe Tohonnie, Jr (Apache) - Journey Into A New Direction Louie Gonnie (Navajo/Zuni) - Night Side Lowery Begay (Navajo) - Touching The Sky Murray Porter (Mohawk) - Stand Up! Nahko (Apache) - Dragonfly
Record of the Year A Distant Star - Vince Redhouse (Navajo) Brother Hawk - Calvin J. Standing Bear & James Torres Red Tail Chasing Hawks (Sicungu, Oglala) Colors of the Rainbow - Alexandro Querevalu’ (Quechua) One Earth World Fusion Music - Various Artists Ongtupqa - Clark Tenakhongva, Gary Stroutso, Matthew Nelson (Hopi) Parallel Universe - Joseph FireCrow ( Northern Cheyenne), Thomasina Levy, David Darling Red Dress Special - Young Spirit (Plains Cree/Various) Song of the Year - Full length recording Ancestors Song - Stl’atl’imx & Friends (St’at’imc)- The Kindness Project Clouds of Sunset -- Alexandro Querevalu’ (Quechua) from Colors of the Rainbow Looking For The Light - Irv Lyons Jr (Oneida) Shine - Sihasin (Navajo) SaVivor - Night Shield (Rosebud) featuring Wellington Downz & Cody Blackbird This is Our Song- The Spiritual Warriors (Interior Salish Lil’wat) - Ancestors Walk In Beauty - Joseph FireCrow ( Northern Cheyenne), Thomasina Levy, David Darling from Parallel Universe Best Indie Single of the Year - Single Release Only Directions - Hawane Rios featuring Nahko (Kanaka Madi/Apache) Human - Twin Flames (Inuit/Mohawk, Cree/Metis) I Don't Give A - Mickie James (Powhatan) Liberty - Eagle & Hawk (Ojibway) My Supplication - Ellson Bennett ft Callie Bennett (Navajo) We Are Love - Kelly Derrickson (First Nation Stylix) We Will Rise Up - Joanne Shenandoah (Oneida) When We Were Young - Jamie Coon (Creek/Seminole) Best Independent Recording By A New Artist - Single Release Only Beautiful Day- Raenisa Ridley (Ute Hopi) Break These Chains - Just Jamez (Colville) Dimmer - Corey Rae White (Ho Chunk) Energies - Gunner Jules (Lakota) Heaven’s Window - Ava Rose Johnson (Osage/Cherokee) One of A Kind - Spur Pourier (Oglala) Pagan - Glass Eden (Mescalero Apache, Quahada Comanche) Undone - Marcia Chum (Cree Constance Lake) Wild Rose - Whisperhawk (Shoshone) GENRE CATEGORIES Best Blues Recording Live At Subcat Studios - The Ripcords (Onondaga Nation) Lucky #13 - Marc Brown (Huslia) No Color In The Blues - Jared Stewart (Crow) Simple Truth - Shelley Morningsong (Northern Cheyenne) Stand Up! - Murray Porter (Mohawk) Best Country Recording A Miner’s Prayer - Matt James (Ojibway) How I Am - Koli Kohler (Hoopa, Yuroh, Karuh) K Town - D Johnson (Navajo) What Do I Got To Do - Desja Eagle Tail (Crow/N.Cheyenne/Seneca/Cree) Red Dirt Remark - Tonemah (Lumbee) Way Out West - Marty Stuart (Choctaw) Best Folk Recording Are We Free? - Burton Guibord (Bad River Ojibwe) Life Blanket - Bear Fox (Mohawk) Makhohe Kiy Tuehila - Alex FireThunder (Oglala Lakota) Nature Walk - Joan Hammel, Tim Brooks (Colville) The Kindness Project - Stl’atl’imx & Friends (St’at’imc) Two Trees Standing - Atlatl (Cherokee) Best Gospel/Inspirational/Native American Church Recording Azee Diyin - Anthony Benally (Navajo) Butterflies, Horses and Guitars - Murphy Platero (Navajo) Continuation Songs - Martinez Lee Sr (Navajo) Night Side - Louie Gonnie (Navajo/Zuni) No Greater Love - Robby Cummings (Lumbee/Cherokee) Remedy - Quinton Gonnie (Navajo) Best Historical/Linguistic/Spoken Word Recording Ancestors - The Spiritual Warriors (Interior Salish Lil’wat) Makȟóčhe Kiŋ Theȟíla (Love For The Land) - Alex FireThunder (Oglala Lakota) Songz - Thoz Womenz (Intertribal) The Kindness Project - Stl’atl’imx Friends (Stl’atl’imx) Wakan Olowan: Lakota Pipe Pipe Ceremonial & Spiritual Songs- Calvin J. Standing Bear (Sicungu, Oglala) Wisdomkeepers Radio - Harvey Arden & Wisdomkeepers Radio band (Cherokee) Best Instrumental Recording A Distant Star - Vince Redhouse (Navajo) Journey of the Heart - Wade Fernandez (Menominee) Naomi’s Dance - Larry Redhouse Quartet (Navajo) Native American Flute Music - Randy Granger (Mayan/Apache) The Great Mystery - Larry Redhouse (Navajo) Watopeka...la premiere ascension - Patrick Therrien (Alliance de Sherbrooke 081Kitne, Anishinaabe, Metis) We Belong To The Music - Crazy Flute (Cherokee) Best New Age/Ambient/Soundscape Recording Colors of the Rainbow - Alexandro Querevalú (Quechua) Eagle Dances With The Wind - Calvin J. Standing Bear & James Torres Red Tail Chasing Hawks (Sicungu, Oglala) In the Spirit of Peace - Dail Dragonfly Martin (Huron, Wyandott, MicMac) One Earth World Fusion - Various Artists Parallel Universe - Joseph FireCrow ( Northern Cheyenne), Thomasina Levy, David Darling Sacred Spiral - Painted Raven (Cherokee/Sioux) Woodland Moons -Marcia Watson Bendo (Citizen Potawatomi) Best Pop Recording Asalia Keeper of the Stars - Asalia (Lac Vieux Desert Ojibwa) Awake - Wildcat Peak (Navajo) Live From White Horse Black Mountain - The Cody Blackbird Band and Connor Chee (Dakota, Cherokee, Navajo) On The Rocks - Shon Denay (Oglala Lakota) Poets Ocean - Blanca Iris Acuna (Taino) Women At War: Warrior Songs - Various Artists Best Pow Wow/ Drum Recording Love, Life, Round Dance - Young Spirit (Cree/Various) Medicine Horse - Cree Confederation (Cree/Various) Nitisanak: Brothers and Sister - Northern Cree (Cree/Various) Red Dress Special - Young Spirit (Plains Cree/Various) Songs - Thoz Womenz (Intertribal) When It’s Cold - Northern Cree (Cree/Various) Best Producer/Engineer Chris Colvin, Seth Donaldson, Ben Gordon - Wisdomkeepers Radio Ed Stasium - Fight Like A Woman - Sihasin Kelly Parker - One Earth World Fusion Music - Various Artists Patrick Therrien & Yves Casteau - Watopeka Robert Doyle - Second Night: El Capitan - Todi Neesh Zhee (Navajo/Dine) Stephen Butler - Nitisnak: Brothers and Sister - Northern Cree
Best Rap/Hip Hop/R&B Recording Dream Trails - Def-i (Navajo) Eclectic -G Precious (Ohkay Owingeh) If I Won The Lottery - David Lopezz (Comanche/Tarahumara) Native Pride - Nick Lone (Seneca) On My Way - Crimespree (Rosebud) SaVivor - Night Shield (Rosebud) Best Rock Recording Chris Ferree - Chris Ferree & Medicine Crow (Eastern Band of Cherokee) Fight Like A Woman - Sihasin (Navajo) Infinite Web - Jiiniikwe Medicine Bird (Bay Mills Anishinabe, Hunkpapa Lakota) Labyrinth - Katsuk (Chickasaw) Sisters & Brothers - Irv Lyons Jr (Oneida Wolf Clan) The Ghost Dance - War Bonnet (Ojibwe) Best Traditional Recording Journey Into A New Direction - Joe Tohonnie, Jr (Apache) Life On The Rez - Herman Cody (Navajo) Ongtupqa - Clark Tenakhongva, Gary Stroutsos, Matthew Nelson (Hopi) Second Night: El Capitan - Todi Neesh Zhee (Navajo/Dine) Tradition - Spirit of Thunderheart (Schaghticoke, Metis) Wakan Olowan Pipe Ceremonial Songs - Calvin J. Standing Bear (Sicungu, Oglala) Best Waila/Chicken Scratch/ Recording 307th Ave & C Street - Famous Ones (Tohono O’odham) Fami:lia - Stevie Ray Vavages (Tohono O’odham) Music and Prayers ...then Now and until we meet Again - Lopez Band (Tohono O’odham) Music In The Soul - Native Thunder (Tohono O’odham/Salt River Pima) The Gift - Mariah’s Beats (Tohono O’odham) The Waila Circle - Native Creed (Tohono O’odham) Waila - Carl and Buddies (Tohono O’odham) Best World Recording Ancestors - The Spiritual Warriors (Interior Salish Lil’wat) Get To You -Native Nations (Navajo/Australia) Labyrinth - Ecstasy - KatsuK (Chickasaw) One Earth World Fusion Music - Various Artists Verde - Innastate (Jicarilla Apache/Jemez Pueblo/Santa Domingo Pueblo/Isleta Pueblo) Watopeka...la premiere ascension -Patrick Therrien (Alliance autochtone de Sherbrooke 081Kitne, Anishinaabe, Metis) Best Music Video Recording Deep End - Bigg B ft N8 (Warm Springs/Paiute/Wasco) Directions - Hawane Rios ft Nahko (Kanaka Madi/Apache) Controlled - Raven Diamond (Aztec, Inca/Mayan) Deforestation - Tony Enos (Cherokee) Beautifully - Michelle Thomas (Navajo) Comeback - Shon Denay (Oglala Lakota) Best Concept for a Music Video Ecstasy - KatsuK (Chickasaw) from Labyrinth Human - Twin Flames (Inuit/Mohawk, Cree/Metis) I Don’t Give A - Mickie James (Powhatan) My Heart Dreams - Black Belt Eagle Scout (Swinomish) Next To You - from A Miner’s Prayer - Matt James (Ojibway) Undone - Marcia Chum (Cree Constance Lake) Best Music Video Narrative Heaven’s Window - Ava Rose Johnson (Osage/Cherokee) How I Am - Koli Kohler (Hoopa, Yuroh, Karuh) Missing You - Joanne Shenandoah (Oneida) Strong Together - Sihasin (Navajo) Reach Who You Are - Callie Bennett (Navajo) So What - Love Collide (Chippewas First Nation) We Are Love - Kelly Derrickson Best Rap Hip Hop Music Video Break These Chains - Just Jamez (Colville) Reckless - Night Shield (Rosebud) featuring Trey Lane, CrimeSpree & Gorilla Pimp Reachin’, Seekin’ and Dreamin’ - Artson (Tarahumara) featuring Sariyah Idan Remember Me - Carradine Billie (Seminole) Stand Up - Blue Flamez (Warm Springs/Nez Perce) Best Music Video For A Live Performance A Girl In Trouble - Deborah Iyall (Cowlitz) Children On The Rez - Blue Mountain Tribe (Chiricahua Apache) Live At Rockwood Hall - Raye Zaragoza (O'odham) Live At Sub Cat Studios - The Ripcords (Onondaga) The Gila Monster - Connor Chee (Navajo) Yoyqatsi (Rain of Life) -Clark Tenakhongva, Gary Stroutsos, Matthew Nelson (Hopi) Native Heart Award (Non Native) Johnny Kee - Echoes From the Trail Jonny Lipford- Moonsongs Ken McGarity - Breath of Life Mikuskovics Baum - Timeless Peter Phippen - Seven Wolfsheart - Acoustic Ride Best Radio Program Gregg McVIccar - Undercurrents Harvey Arden & Wisdomkeepers Radio band KOHN 91.9 FM - Tohono O’odham Nation Native Circle Show/ David Rose - One World Music Radio Deer Tracks on 94.7 FM, KGLP Gallup, NM with your host’s Shelley Morningsong & Strider Brown The Deep End with The Chaz on KBFT Bois Forte Tribal Radio
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WES STUDI
Singer and guitarist, John Gourley, and bassist, Zachary Carothers are the founding members of the highly successful group, Portugal The Man. Their friendship goes back to high school in Wasilla, Alaska. The group won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their song "Feel It Still" at the 60th Annual GRAMMY Awards. Their acceptance speech was dedicated to the Native youth in the remote villages of Shishmaref, Barrow and Bethel, Alaska. Their continued support of America’s Indigenous People was extended throughout their 2018 national tour by dedicating the opening portion of their set to local tribal artists, leaders, and activists. Thousands of people heard powerful and reaffirming Land Acknowledgements and shared in the celebration of these cultures. PTM posted on social media, “Recognize and respect! Honor the Indigenous Peoples of your home and everywhere else.” and urged everyone to learn and remember the traditional name of the land they’re on and to show respect and gratitude to the first people who call it home. In 2019, PTM released a video entitled, “Land Acknowledgement” highlighting their national tour. Portugal The Man are highly respected for their recent efforts supporting and honoring indigenous people. They have uniquely and continuously made the public aware of tribal histories through their dedicated efforts for land acknowledgement. 
Debora Iyall is best known as the lead vocalist for the American New Wave/post punk band, Romeo Void. In 1969, at age fourteen, Debora joined the American Indian protest of the Occupation of Alcatraz and stayed for six days. Ten years later, Debora formed the band Romeo Void with bassist Frank Zincavage, saxophonist Benjamin Bossi, and guitarist Peter Woods while attending the San Francisco Art Institute. In 1981, the group released their first single, “White Sweater,” and introduced Romeo Void’s unique blend of jazz, funk, rock and confrontational poetry. The band was quickly recognized for their remarkable modernization of punk music. Debora’s strong, yet sometimes sultry and spoken voice captured the young alternative audience. Ric Ocasek extended an invitation to collaborate and the results were the Never Say Never EP. The band was a hit on college radio and in New Wave dance clubs. Never Say Never was deemed a “masterpiece of American post-punk.” Debora immediately garnered critical acclaim as a skilled lyricist and won over female fans with her daring themes of sexuality. By 1984, their highest charting single, “A Girl In Trouble (Is A Temporary Thing) landed the group in the Top 40 of Billboard’s Hot 100. That same year, the group appeared on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. The band would release a total of three albums, It’s A Condition, Benefactor, and Instincts, along with the Never Say Never EP, before disbanding in 1985. Romeo Void’s music has since been featured in The Incredible Ms. Maisel and in Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street. The members have reunited briefly over the years including on an episode of VH-1’s Bands Reunited. After releasing a solo album in 1986, Debora has since pursued a rewarding career as an art teacher. She continues to perform on occasion. Debora Iyall remains among an elite group of female fronted rock bands who redefined the role of women in rock music. And, she has always kept her Cowlitz heritage close. “While Everyone was leaning against the wall wearing black," she once said, " for me, Romeo Void was a reaction against the regimentation of everyone having to be bleached blonde ...I was proud of being American Indian, so I purposely never bleached my hair blonde.”
Wes Studi is a Native Oklahoman, Vietnam Veteran, Actor, Musician, Sculptor, Author, Activist and the first indigenous Native American actor to receive an Academy Award. His first few roles quickly established him as one of the most compelling actors in Hollywood; form the Pawnee Warrior in Dances with Wolves, to his powerful performance as Magua in Last of the Mohicans'; and as a LAPD Detective in Heat with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Wes has well over 80 film and television productions to his credit, including his more recent appearances in Avatar and Hostiles. He has brought unmatched dignity and integrity with each and every one of his performances. He is undoubtedly, the greatest and most authentic Native American actor of our time. Earlier this week, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences bestowed him with a Governors Award for his distinguished 30 year career, making him the first Native American actor to receive an Oscar. Wes is also an accomplished musician and fronts the band Firecat of Discord with his wife, singer Maura Dhu while playing bass and guitar. His band has released one CD and recently completed new material. His work has established him as a superior role model for all of Indian Country and for other indigenous actors and entertainers around the world. The Native American Music Awards is very proud to induct Wes Studi into the NAMA Hall of Fame.
The Rising Star is presented to recognize an individual or group who has made a significant impact in the field of music. This prestigious award of recognition is being presented to a singing group who not only excelled in their field, but are also NAMA's youngest nominees.Their CD, entitled, Hear Our Songs, is a twelve song recording written and performed by elementary and middle school students of the Lac du Flambeau public school. Debuting as the Niijii Singers and Ogiichidaa Singers, these young artists impressively composed most of the songs themselves and sing in Ojibwe. Following the guidance of their elder, and Award winner, Bobby Bullet, their music is rooted in the traditional Seven Grandfather Teachings of wisdom, honesty, truth, bravery, respect, humility and love. The Hear Our Songs project has provided a platform for these students to learn about the songwriting process while sharing their most inner thoughts and feelings. Many of these youth have suffered great loss and the project has offered them an opportunity to heal. These young artists hope that through their songs, listeners will find greater inspiration and contribute to a stronger and healthier community. Thorpe Sports Award, Mickie James (Powhatan)
The 19th Annual Native American Music Awards is hosted by the Seneca Nation of Indians (one of the six tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy) and will be held at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, New York on November 2nd in the Seneca Events Center. Doors open at 6:00PM EST for the Red Carpet. At 7:00pm local Seneca bands, Iron Eye and Faron John will be performing with the Awards show starting at 8:00pm. The Awards Pre-Show Red Carpet Event will be hosted by Kim Acosta and David Rose for nominees, patrons, and the general public. The awards is also presented in part by the Ferry Law and the Unitary Apparel.
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PORTUGAL. THE MAN
Wes Studi To Be Inducted Into The N.A.M.A. Hall of Fame
the Ed Koban Group.
The Newtown Women And Youth Singers are a traditional group from Seneca Territory who have been singing for many years and are now teaching younger Seneca ladies to also sing and preserve their language. Since their inception, Ohwejagehka Hadegaenage has distributed Earth Songs, or Iroquois Social Songs, as an effort to preserve and promote Iroquoian culture. All the members of the Newtown Singers work hard to continue their traditional ways. In this new era, they believe, they must all continue to work together to carry on their culture for the generations yet to come. 
Callie Bennett was adopted at four months old from Seoul, South Korea into the Navajo Nation. Her music is inspired by her family and her inherited Navajo/Diné culture. Callie’s first album, 'Glorify' was nominated for Best Female Artist and Best Gospel/Inspirational Recording. In 2017, Callie's single 'Awake Arise and Shine' won for Best Gospel Inspirational Record. Callie is highly involved with her father’s ministry which is located on the Navajo Nation. She teaches youth groups, has performed on the Trinity Broadcasting Television Network of Arizona, and continuously travels with her Father, Ellson Bennett. Callie's heart is to reach out to all nations with encouragement, hope, faith, and love through her music.
Ellson Bennett is the Co-Founder of Covenant of Faith, a ministry of many outreaches devoted to meeting the needs of the Indigenous People of America and the world. Well-known for his balanced Biblical teaching, Ellson travels from Indian Reservations to the Metropolitan, teaching the uncompromised 'Word of God/' Ellson shares his inspiring messages of victory and faith with vivid illustrations from the Bible. He and his family were adopted into the Lakota Nation by the Miniconjou Band where he was given the name Wakiyan Ho' Was'te' meaning 'Good Voice Thunder'.
DJ Shub, born Dan General, is a DJ and music producer who has created a sound and experience all of his own. Considered to be the Godfather of PowWowStep, Shub who is Mohawk and a member of the Six Nations of the Grand River, continues to pioneer a growing genre of electronic music. His live show features a non-stop body-moving experience enhanced by traditional dancers in full regalia. He has won numerous awards for his work as a DJ and solo artist and as a former member of the group, A Tribe Called Red. Some of his accomplishments include; a Juno Award and Best Music Video from the Native American Music Awards for “Indomitable Ft. Northern Cree Singers.” The single went on to become the #1 song on Sirius Xm radio’s Indigenous Music Countdown program on NCI-FM..
Innastate is a contemporary reggae band from the high-desert of New Mexico who have shared the stage with greats such as; the Wailers, Native Roots and Nahko. The group has quickly gained acclaim for their unique brand of modern reggae rock that honors their indigenous heritage. The band believes in the power of music to connect people, offering heartfelt songs that reflect on the human experience, spirituality and the environment. Innastate members are; Adrian Wall of Jemez Pueblo (guitar/vocal), Rylan Kabotie of Santa Clara Pueblo/Jicarilla Apache (bass/vocal), Lawrence Bailon of Santa Clara Pueblo/Kewa Pueblo (drums), and Karlo Johnson of Isleta Pueblo (guitar). Their live lineup expands utilizing the talents of Romeo Alonzo (alto sax), MC T-Bone (trombone) and Mikey Jaramillo (percussionist).
Jamie Coon’s music has been described as “Soul-Pop”. Winner of the Native American Music Awards Best Pop Recording in 2014, Jamie’s timeless quality of her music comes from a simple recipe of well-crafted, melodic songs performed with superb musicianship. The Oklahoma native who is Creek and Seminole grew up listening to Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Elton John and the Beatles. The result is an emotional musical ride, sometimes joyful, sometimes bittersweet, but always hopeful. Jamie’s songs have been featured in several films and on television including; Deceit, the indie-comedy Long-Term Relationship and on the Television series Ghost Whisperer with Jennifer Love Hewitt.
Joanne Shenandoah has been hailed by the Associated Press as one of “America’s most celebrated and critically acclaimed Native American musicians of her time”. Joanne has acquired a total of over 40 music awards; fifteen of which are from the Native American Music Awards including Lifetime Achievement. Joanne’s traditional and contemporary deliveries have ranged from solos to full symphonies throughout her twenty-two recordings which have mesmerized audiences all over the world. Joanne and her daughter, Leah, are direct descendants of the famed “Chief Shenandoah” who is noted to have been given a “Peace Medal” by George Washington. Her daughter, Leah has performed with her mother throughout most of her life. In 2014, Leah recorded her debut album and won the Native American Music Awards Debut Artist of the Year. As Oneida Iroquois Wolf Clan members, their art is deeply rooted in their heritage.
Keith Secola is considered a songwriter of the people and is an icon and ambassador of Native music. Of the Anishinabe tribe, Keith is one of the most influential artists today. His most popular song, NDN Kars (Indian cars), is considered a Native American anthem and has been the number one requested song on tribal radio stations for over three decades. Highly skilled with the guitar, flute, mandolin, banjo, harmonica, and piano, he has garnered awards and accolades as a musician, singer, songwriter, composer and producer. Keith has toured the US and Europe and has played in venues from the halls of the Chicago Urban Indian Centre, to the walls of the Grand Canyon, and at the Olympic Games in Atlanta and Salt Lake City. He has won seven Native American Music Awards for a variety of categories and has been inducted into the Native Music Hall of Fame.
Kelly Derrickson is a First Nation artist from Westbank, British Columbia who is the daughter of Grand Chief Ronald Derrickson. What her father has worked to accomplish through leadership and politics, Kelly has worked to accomplish through music. Kelly, has received multiple awards from various organizations including NAMA’s Best Female Artist for the past two consecutive years. Her songs are currently in rotation on Sirius XM Radio and on stations in North America. Her concern for young people can be found in Suicide Song, co-written by Kelly and her father. I Am (Mother Nature) celebrates nature while her song, Idle No More is a statement against the pollution of Canada’s native lands. Recently, her nominated song, “We Are Love” is rallying the hearts of her fans everywhere and her video has reached just over 200,000 views.
Shelley Morningsong is Northern Cheyenne and Dutch. She has recorded five contemporary 
albums and has received three Native American music awards including Artist of the Year. With an alto voice that pulls from the depths of her cowboy boots, and songs with lyrics that cut to the heart, Shelley is also a master of the Native flute. Her husband and musical partner, Fabian Fontenelle is Zuni and Omaha. He brings a breathtaking and beautiful element to their performance with his traditional northern plains style dancing, storytelling and drumming. Fabian is an original member of the American Indian Dance Theater and is the great, great Grandson of Chief Big Elk of the Omaha people. He has provided master-work choreography for PBS and has done consulting work and acting for the History Channel and Stephen Spielberg’s Into the West.
The Cody Blackbird Band features brothers Cody and Caleb Blackbird who are Dakota, Cherokee, and Romani gypsy, The Cody Blackbird Band fuses traditional Native-American flute music with blues and heartland rock. Raw, honest, and organic the brothers honor the sacred music of their ancestors, while infusing the revolution of rock and R&B. Utilizing the haunting sounds of the traditional wooden flute and hide skin drum, Cody has become influential flutist for a new generation, while his brother Caleb keeps the heartbeat of the pow-wow inside all of their songs. Cody’s voice ranges from the subtle intimacies of soft heartfelt poetry to the rough-edged sound of an experienced classic blues-rock powerhouse. Awarded Group of the Year in 2017 at the Native American Music Awards, the band has shared the bill with such artists as; The Black Eyed Peas and Michael Franti. Their latest musical offering is produced by industry veteran Kenny Lee Lewis of the Steve Miller Band.
Ed Koban has organized and led the House band for the Native American Music Awards since 2011. His versatile and high energy group is comprised of world class musicians who can shift between genres and styles to support the wide range of artists at the annual Awards show stage. Ed Koban is a guitarist and Native American Flutist from Niagara Falls, New York. He has shared the bill with groups such as: Foghat, Three Dog Night, Molly Hatchet, Indigenous, Rusted Root, and has performed at prestigious events at the Kennedy Center and the 2002 Winter Olympics. Ed's music defies categorization. His sound is much like the man himself, unable to be confined by any one style or genre.
JR Redwater is an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. They call JR the “Reservation Sensation” for good reason; he is one of the most requested comedians in Indian Country today. “JR’s pain is the audience’s gain” as he spins the bitter hardships of reservation life into huge laughs. This master storyteller delivers wall-to-wall comedy that connects with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. He was featured on Showtime’s “Native American Comedy Jam”, and has released his own solo comedy special, “Full Blooded Hilarious”. JR performs live across North America at Casinos, Clubs, Universities, Conferences and more.
AWARDS SHOW HOSTS
Mickie James is a WWE® Superstar & Country Recording Artist. While growing up in Virginia, Mickie James, or Mickie Laree James was a tomboy who always loved riding horses and the wrestling business. Mickie's strong Powhatan ancestry tracing back to the Middle High reservation on her mother’s side, is something she has always embraced throughout her career and still remains very proud of. Today, WWE® Superstar Mickie James™ is internationally recognized in the world of professional wrestling. She is a six time Women's champion. She has set a precedent and broken many barriers for women in the WWE. Mickie was inducted into the Native American Music Awards Hall of Fame during the 17th Annual Native American Music Awards ceremony.. As a recording artist, she has also released two albums, six singles, and has performed with Rascal Flats, Gretchen Wilson, Randy Houser, Montgomery Gentry and at the CMAs. Last year, she was awarded Best Signle Recording for her song, "Left, Right, Left". Mickie continues to serve as an incredible inspiration and role model as a WWE Superstar, professional wrestler, country singer and entertainer.
Wes Studi or Wesley Studi has become and internationally acclaimed actor and the most recognized and distinguished Native American in film and television. From a small town Oklahoma native who served in Vietnam, to the first Native American Actor to receive an Oscar, Wes Studi has become an internationally acclaimed actor. Wes first caught the attention of the public in 1990 with Dances with Woves. By 1992 his powerful performance as "Magua" in The Last of the Mohicans establsihed him as one of the most compelling actors in Hollywood. In 1995, he appeared as a LAPD detective in Heat with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. He has since appeared in more than 80 film and television productions including Geronimo: An American Legend, Skinwalkers, Avatar and most recently, Hostiles. Last year he appeared on the 90th Annual Academy Awards and spoke in his native Cherokee language as part of a military tribute. The Academy has bestowed him with an Oscar "to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences."
# # #
WHO: The 19th Annual Native American Music Awards will be a star-studded gala filled with a VIP pre-show Red Carpet reception, incredible performances and a special Hall of Fame induction along with unforgettable moments as today’s most talented North American indigenous musicians are honored. Experience live music performances from reflecting the impressive and diverse array of talent and soundscapes for all ages and tribal nations. It’s sure to be a night you won’t forget.
WHAT: The Native American Music Awards is "devoted to bringing Indigenous music to the world's consciousness" as credited by the New York Times, and was cited as being "The Awards Show For Native American Entertainment" by Jeopardy TV. The Native American Music Awards is an ultimate celebration of music and entertainment. Founded in 1998, it is the world's first and largest national professional membership-based organization for the advancement & recognition of contemporary and traditional music initiatives by artists with Native American heritage.
WHERE: The 19th Annual Native American Music Awards is hosted by the Seneca Nation of Indians (one of the six tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy) and will be held at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, New York on November 2nd in the Seneca Events Center. Doors open at 7:00PM EST. The Awards ceremony will be preceded by a free Pre-Show Red Carpet Event for nominees, and guests..
Tickets for the 19th Annual Native American Music Awards Gala start at $50.00 and are available through Ticketmaster or by visiting the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino box office which is located at 310 4th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303 (877) 873-6322.
Voting for the Native American Music Awards is open to the general public and remains live up until showtime. Music tracks from all the nominees are featured on the audio players on www.NAMALIVE.com. Anyone can vote by visiting the Awards website VOTING page, or by clicking here.
Native American Music Awards ph 212.228.8300 fax 646.688.6883
email NAMAlive@aol.com
www.NAMALIVE.com
NAMA NEWS
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 WWE® SUPERSTAR MICKIE JAMES™ ACTOR SAGINAW GRANT, FELIPE ROSE AMONG THE SPECIAL GUESTS & PERFORMERS
AT THE EIGHTEENTH ANNUAL AWARDS
Jesse Ed Davis To Be Inducted Into The N.A.M.A. Hall of Fame September 27, 2018 – Niagara Falls, NY. The Native American Music Awards is proud to announce an A List of entertainers, special guests, nominees and performers for Native Music's biggest night on Friday October 12th at the Seneca Niagara Hotel & Casino in Niagara Falls, New York. Featured guests include; singer/songwriter Annie Humphrey, pianist Connor Chee, Buffalo-based house band the Ed Koban Group, Blues Rock guitarist Tracy Lee Nelson, Canadian Folk duo Twin Flames, Seneca Nation's, Newtown Women's Singers, Red Rhythm Band, Faron Johns, plus a special closing performance by NAMA Hall of Famer, Felipe Rose joined by award winners Jan Michael Looking Wolf and Sten Joddi. Other special guests include; WWE's Mickie James who was inducted into the NAMA Hall of Fame last year and will be both c*ohosting the event and performing live, NAMA Living Legend Saginaw Grant, actor Rick Morer, musician Jimmy Lee Young who was featured in U2's recent concert video, and comedy duo, Williams and Ree who will be introducing the Awards' new category for Best Comedian. In addition to performing, Felipe Rose will be hosting the pre-show Red Carpet event.
The Native American Music Awards & Association is very proud to announce that the late influential rock guitarist, Jesse Ed Davis will be inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame. Along with attending family members, Davis's original Graffitiman bandmembers, Mark Shark and Quilt Sahme, will be performing a tribute in his honor. The induction will put Jesse Ed Davis' right up in the ranks of other N.A.M.A. Hall of Famers including; Jimi Hendrix, Link Wray, Hank Williams, Nokie Edwards, Rickey Medlocke, Redbone, Felipe Rose (Village People), Richie Valens, Keith Secola, Taboo (Black Eyed Peas) and other greats.
MORE ABOUT THE PERFORMERS:
An Opening Performance of Saginaw Grant's "Don't Let The Drums Go Silent" will feature contemporary dancers from Janet Dunstan's Dance Academy, located in Niagara Falls New York, under the direction of Courtney Glenn. The dancers are trained in jazz, contemporary, tap, acrobatics and hip hop styles.
Annie Humphrey was born and raised on an Ojibwe Indian reservation in Minnesota. She is the daughter of author Anne Dunn, and a father who was a musician. Annie taught herself piano and was playing guitar and writing songs by third grade. After college, she made her first album with guitarist Don Robinson, For the Children. She spent a year in the Marines, played at coffee houses and in bands, graduated from the Police Academy and then enrolled at the University of North Dakota where she studied art. She appeared on three songs from the compilation album The Whispering Tree, released by the Makoché label. Makoche’ also released her stunning debut album, the critically acclaimed, The Heron Smiled, in 2000 which showcased Annie’s soft voice, emotional honesty, and poignant lyrics. In 2004, she released Edge of America, a folk, pop and rock mix of songs that shared her truth about the world as she saw it. It wasn’t until 2016, that Annie released a more harder rocking release, Uncombed Hair. This year, Annie released her fourth album entitled The Beast and The Garden which features a tribute song to her brother and the late John Trudell.
Twin Flames is a captivating duo that combines two accomplished and very unique singer/songwriters who are also husband and wife. Chelsey June is
All the members of the Newtown Singers work hard to continue their traditional ways. Since their inception, Ohwejagehka Hadegaenage has distributed Earth Songs, or Iroquois Social Songs, as an effort to preserve and promote Iroquoian culture. The Newtown Womens Singers are a traditional group from Seneca Territory. In this new era, they believe, they must all continue to work together to carry on their culture for the generations yet to come. AWARDS SHOW HOST
HALL OF FAME INDUCTION OF JESSE ED DAVIS Jesse Ed Davis was one of music’s most distinctive and influential guitarists of the late '60s and early '70s. Whether it was blues, country, or rock, Born in Norman Oklahma, Jesse's father was Comanche and his mother was Kiowa. He began his music career touring with Conway Twitty and was introduced to recording session work by his friend Leon Russell. He became a steady lead guitarist for Taj Mahal on three albums before going on to work with; George Harrison, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, B.B. King, Gene Clark, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne and others. From 1971-1973, Jesse recorded and released three of his own albums: Jesse Davis, Ululu, and Keep Me Comin' which highlighted his own vocal character, and songwriting abilities and featured contributions from Leon Russell and Eric Clapton. Jesse continued to contribute to many other albums. In 1985, he honored his roots and began working with poet/activist John Trudell and formed the Graffiti Band. Along with members Mark Shark and Quilt Sahme (Quilt man), they coupled Jesse's sound with the poetry and imagery of Trudell. Together, the band pioneered a new indigenous rock sound for a politically charged, critically acclaimed album entitled, AKA Grafitti Man. Bob Dylan called it "the album of the year." Since his death 30 years ago, Jesse Ed Davis has left behind a legacy both as an artist and as a Native American and is revered as one of rock music's finest guitarist. The Native American Music Awards is proud to induct Jesse Ed Davis into the Native American Music Hall of Fame. Along with attending family members, Graffitiman bandmembers, Mark Shark and Quilt Sahme will perform a tribute in his honor.The Jesse Ed Davis Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame video will be presented during the induction as created and provided by Dr. Hugh Foley. # # # WHO: The 18th Annual Native American Music Awards will be a star-studded gala filled with a VIP pre-show Red Carpet reception, incredible performances and a special Hall of Fame induction along with unforgettable moments as today’s most talented indigenous musicians are honored. Experience live music performances from reflecting the impressive and diverse array of talent and soundscapes for all ages and tribal nations. It’s sure to be a night you won’t forget. WHAT: The Native American Music Awards is "devoted to bringing Indigenous music to the world's consciousness" as credited by the New York Times, and was cited as being "The Awards Show For Native American Entertainment" by Jeopardy TV. The Native American Music Awards is an ultimate celebration of music and entertainment. Founded in 1998, it is the world's first and largest national professional membership-based organization for the advancement & recognition of contemporary and traditional music initiatives by artists with Native American heritage. Tickets for the 18th Annual Native American Music Awards Gala start at $45.00 and are available through Ticketmaster or by visiting the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino box office which is located at 310 4th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303 (877) 873-6322. Other pre-event Native American performances leading up to the event at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino include; A Tribute to Redbone featuring Thunderhand Joe on Wednesday, October 10 and a comedy performance by Williams and Ree, AKA The Indian and The White Guy on Thursday, October 11. Voting for the Native American Music Awards is open to the general public. Music tracks from all the nominees are featured on the audio players on www.NAMALIVE.com. Anyone can vote by visiting the Awards website VOTING page, or by clicking here. #VOTENATIVE #NAMA18 #NATIVEAWARDS
Native American Music Awards ph 212.228.8300 fax 646.688.6883 email NAMAlive@aol.com www.NAMALIVE.com |
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Navajo pianist and composer, Connor Chee began playing piano at age 6. By age 12, Chee won a gold medal in the World Piano Competition Young Artist Division, and earned his first performance at New York City’s Carnegie Hall. In the following years, he won multiple awards, earned performances at the United Nations, and an international feature on CNN. Chee has performed with the Cincinnati Pops, the Hamilton-Fairfield Symphony Orchestra, and the Blue Ash Montgomery Symphony Orchestra. Chee received his Bachelor of Music from Eastman School of Music, and went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music. Recently, he was awarded a First Prize in the Bradshaw & Bouno International Piano Competition, and performed in the winners' recital at Carnegie Hall. This extraordinarily gifted pianist also plays works by Chopin, Rachmaninoff and Liszt. He was awarded Best Instrumental Recording at the 16th Annual Native American Music Awards for his album, The Navajo Piano, which featured original piano compositions and transcriptions based on traditional Navajo chants sung by his grandfather, Keith Chee. His newest Cd, Emergence, is a portal to another dimension. Chee goes further, creating his own melodies to tell the old stories and captures the essence of his Native Arizona. All of Connor Chee’s melodies reflect a more mature musician and composer, with overtones of joy, power, longing and nostalgia.
Ed Koban has organized and led the House band for the Native American Music Awards since 2011. His versatile and high energy group is comprised of world class musicians who can shift between genres and styles to support the wide range of artists at the annual Awards show stage. Ed Koban is a guitarist and Native American Flutist from Niagara Falls, New York. He has performed on stage and recorded with many respected artists including, Joanne Shenandoah, and a Taste of Honey’s Janice Marie Johnson, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee: Nokie Edwards, as well as: Gabriel Ayala, Tonemah, Cody Blackbird, Leanne Shenandoah, Jim Boyd, Keith Secola and others. He has shared the bill with groups such as: Foghat, Three Dog Night, Molly Hatchet, Indigenous, Rusted Root, and has performed at prestigious events at the Kennedy Center and the 2002 Winter Olympics. Ed's music defies categorization. His sound is much like the man himself, unable to be confined by style or genre. Ed Koban's NAMA nominated 2015 release How to Fly blends the gorgeous & haunting Native American flute with guitar playing that ranges from gentle acoustic to blistering electric Rock & Blues, combined with sounds inspired by music from Africa to Chicago, from Folk to Jazz, Reggae to Rock, making for a fresh new sound that is accessible to music fans everywhere.
Felipe Rose was best known as the original "American Indian" singer of Taino and Lakota heritage in the Village People. Together, he and the group scored several popular international dance hits including; "Macho Man, "In the Navy" and "Y.M.C.A.". Felipe has also earned multiple Native American Music Awards for his various solo recordings including for the song, “Trail of Tears”. Decades later, Felipe Rose is still recognized for his role in the Village People and more recently, as a successful solo artist. Two of Felipe's greatest personal achievements were; receiving a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and only one month later, being inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame. In his 40th year in the entertainment industry, Felipe continues to use his influential position to highlight issues that are important to him, encourage other Native artists, and entertain the public at large. Felipe will be giving a special closing performance with award-winning flutist Jan Michael Looking Wolf and hip-hop artist Sten Joddi. He will also be hosting the Red Carpet for a second straight year.
Author, composer, multi-instrumentalist and educator, Mark Shark has spent the last 35 years composing, recording and touring with The Grafittiman Band featuring John Trudell and Jesse Ed Davis. After Jesse's untimely passing in 1988, Shark continued on as musical director for Trudell's Bad Dog band. Grateful for almost every moment shared, he and the rest of the Bad Dog family are committed to keeping John and Jesse's work alive for future generations. Shark is "Very happy to be here tonight to celebrate our brothers and thankful to Annie Humphrey for creating something beautiful, remembering and reaching out." For more information on Mark Shark please visit: The Tao of Tunings.com “Crazy Horse we hear what you say...We are the 7th Generation......” 
Quilt Sahme
Tracy Lee Nelson is a Luiseno/Diegueno Native Californian Indian from the La Jolla Indian Reservation in San Diego. With 38 years of experience as a musician and artist, Tracy has engaged in playing many genres of music from blues to rock. He has emerged with a ground-breaking new perspective of the blues; a Native American’s point of view. This Southern California premiere Blues artist has traveled across the nation sweeping the country with his hard-hitting perspective of reservation life. From New York City to Seattle, Washington, Tracy’s unique voice, original lyrics and blues guitar work comes straight from the heart, writing and singing songs of issues that should have been spoken of long ago. Tracy Lee Nelson, a former Tribal Chairman of the La Jolla Indian Reservation, has had the honor of being in Native Peoples Magazine as “one of the finest up and coming Native American Artists”. Tracy and his new recording, Blues Loving Man have been featured in such publications as; Hollywood Reporter, Indian Artist, News from Native California, LA Times, Union Tribune, The Press-Enterprise, ICE Indian Cinema Entertainment, Indian Country Today, and Blues Blast Magazine. Blues Loving Man has also been nominated for “Best Blues Recording,” Artist of the Year” and “Best Music Video” with The 18th Annual Native American Music Awards. As an artist, Tracy’s art work is on display at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington D.C. and was recently on display at the San Diego Museum of Man. Currently Tracy has released a total of nine CD’s.
an Algonquin Cree Métis woman from Ottawa and Jaaji (pronounced Yaah Ye) is an Inuk Mohawk man from Nunavik and Kahnawake. Together, they take the audience on a musical journey across Canada and the Arctic, echoing the voices of their ancestors and depicting life on the land through songs in English, French and Inuktitut. Both fascinating and intriguing, this powerful duo came together on their self-titled debut album, Jaaji & Chelsey June, Twin Flames, released in December 2015. The album received rave reviews for their groundbreaking mixture of cultures and heritage including two Native American Music Awards nominations and a 2016 Canadian Folk Music Award for Aboriginal Songwriters of the Year. Their much anticipated second album, Signal Fire has earned them a total of seven nominations in the 18th Annual Native American Music Awards. The album features their hit song, “Porchlight” which was written to raise awareness for missing and murdered Inuit/Indigenous woman and their families. The song took the #1 slot on The National Aboriginal Countdown and is being played across the United States and Canada. In just three short years together, Twin Flames have performed over 700 shows and have uniquely shared their great ability to convey stories and emotions through their voices, lyrics and melodies. Entertaining, yet thought-provoking, their songs also gently educate audiences on Indigenous and Inuit history and current issues. 
Mickie James will be co-hosting and performing at this year's Awards ceremony. Mickie James is a WWE® Superstar & SMG Recording Artist. While growing up in Virginia, Mickie James, or Mickie Laree James was a tomboy who always loved riding horses and the wrestling business. Mickie's strong Powhatan ancestry tracing back to the Middle High reservation on her mother’s side, is something she has always embraced throughout her career and still remains very proud of. Today, WWE® Superstar Mickie James™ is internationally recognized in the world of professional wrestling. She is a six time Women's champion. She has set a precedent and broken many barriers for women in the WWE. As a SMG Recording Artist, with two full length albums and five singles to her credit, she is also widely known in the country music circuit. Mickie was inducted into the Native American Music Awards Hall of Fame during the 17th Annual Native American Music Awards ceremony. Her single entitled, "Shooting Blanks" was well received and won for Song of the Year. She has also just released two recordings; Don't Be Afraid, and Left Right Left which are currently impacting radio and can be purchased through iTunes, Amazon and other online digital retailers. Mickie continues to serve as an incredible inspiration and role model for many artists as well as Native youth from across the country. Her world renowned reputation as a WWE Superstar, professional wrestler, country singer and entertainer undoubtedly warrants her a permanent place of prominence
Get ready for comedy gold with Williams and Ree, AKA the Indian and the White Guy. The hilarious comedy duo from the Dakotas will bring their humor to the Native American Music Awards stage. Bruce Williams and Terry Ree have been making crowds crack up for over 30 years with their politically incorrect brand of humor. They’ve entertained audiences across the country at shows, festivals, on Sirius Radio and with their own irreverent podcast, the Red, White and Slightly Blue show. Williams and Ree are a CMA-nominated music group, who won Entertainers of the Year by the Native American Music Awards. They have also made a name for themselves on television with appearances on Country Kitchen, HeeHaw, Laff TV and Comedy Central. Williams and Ree were featured guests at the inaugural Native American Music Awards show in 1998.
Jesse’s' impressive guitar playing was featured on numerous albums by such artists as; Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Willie Nelson, Steve Miller, Leonard Cohen, Neil Diamond, John Lennon, George Harrison, Taj Mahal, John Lee Hooker and Rod Stewart as well as on his own.
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The Native American Music Awards is proud to introduce the newest member of the Native American Music Awards House band from Six Nations, Please welcome.....Dwayne LaForme!!!
Wes Studi Presents Military Tribute at The Oscars
One of the most distinguished American Indian Actors, Wes Studi, recently presented an Oscars Military Movie Tribute at the 90th Academy Awards.
Studi who served as a soldier in the Vietnam War. stated, “I’m proud to have served there for 12 months with Alpha Company of the 39th Infantry... As a veteran, I am always appreciative when filmmakers bring to the screen stories of those who have served. Over 90 years of the Academy Awards, a number of movies with military themes have been honored at the Oscars. Let’s take a moment to pay tribute to these powerful films that shine a great spotlight on those who have fought for freedom around the world.”
Studi closed his presentation by reintroducing the montage by speaking in his Native Cherokee language. American Sniper, The Hurt Locker, Saving Private Ryan, and Zero Dark Thirty were among some of the clips featured in the montage.
Wes Studi has appeared in numerous movies and roles including; Hostiles (2018), Dances with Wolves (1990) and The Last of the Mohicans (1992), and in the Academy Award-nominated films Geronimo: An American Legend (1993) Other films he's appeared in are Heat, Mystery Men, Avatar, A Million Ways to Die in the West, and the television series Penny Dreadful.
Wes Studi was a presenter at the Inaugural Native American Music Awards in 1998 and has was the host of the 12th Annual Native American Music Awards where he also performed.
Watch his Oscar appearance here.
The 90th #Oscars honor the men and women of the United States military. pic.twitter.com/DoaztJB7fS
— ABC Network (@ABCNetwork) March 5, 2018