performing this year
Adrian Sutherland
Adrian Sutherland is a roots-rocker-with-heart from Canada’s Far North. Born and raised in Attawapiskat First Nation, he has the voice of a songbird, a boatload of talent, and an ocean of muses from the waters of James Bay. His melding of folk, rock, roots, and blues draws inspiration from his life, the land, and his Cree culture and language. His music touches hearts, with soul-stirring songs that ripple far beyond stages and airwaves.
Adrian’s sophomore album Precious Diamonds was released March 15, 2024. Produced in Nashville by Colin Linden, and mastered in New Jersey by the multi-Grammy-winning team of Greg Calbi and Steve Fallone, legendary guest artists on the ten-track record include Mickey Raphael (harmonica) and Jim Hoke (saxophones). Two songs are written in Adrian’s Indigenous language, marking the first time he is writing and recording in Omushkegowuk Cree. The pow wow singing and chanting that can be heard on select tracks is performed by Adrian, who has begun organically infusing traditional sounds into his contemporary music.
Adrian first worked with Colin Linden in 2021. Cut-off from the rest of the world for two full years, Adrian built his own recording studio inside a shipping container to stay active in music during the pandemic. He used it to work remotely with Colin to record his solo debut album, When The Magic Hits, which went on to earn nominations at the 2022 JUNO Awards and 2023 Canadian Folk Music Awards. Title track Magic Hits also won Best Music Video from San Francisco’s 47th American Indian Film Festival.
Adrian wrote and released three full albums of music with his band Midnight Shine before turning to solo projects. As one of the only professional recording artists in all of Canada who still lives on a remote fly-in First Nation, and who is fluent in his first language, Adrian’s story is compelling enough to capture the attention of media like CTV’s The Social, Etalk, ET Canada, and CNN Entertainment. He is presently writing a book for Penguin Random House Canada about his extraordinary life.
Adrian cares deeply about many causes, with authentic first-hand perspective on issues like contaminated water, food insecurity, addictions, and mental health. At this important time of reconciliation, he is hopeful for Canadians to walk together in love and respect.
Adrian Sutherland - Notawe (Father) (Official Music Video)
