Proud to be an Anishinaabe musician

By Jamie-Lee McKenzie

NIPISSING FIRST NATION – There is a lot of talent that can be found in First Nation communities – especially musical talent. This is no different for Josh Stevens, a musician from Nipissing First Nation.

There are many up-and-coming First Nations musicians as well as many First Nations musicians who openly-advertise as First Nations, and for Stevens, he feels that it is important that his fans know where he is from and that he is First Nations.
“I am from Nipissing First Nation, I was raised there all my life and still live there now, I am proud of where I come from,” says Stevens.

He is clearly proud of his First Nations heritage and his community where he has other family members and friends who are also musicians.

“We have plenty of singers and musicians, it’s nice to see them all get out there and do what they are passionate about,” says Stevens.
Stevens says he loves performing and tries to book a show every weekend, whether it be a bar, a café or a festival. His band, The Nashtown Jacks recently performed at Kipawa Countryfest on August 15, and opened for Gil Grand at the Lavigne Tavern on August 20.  He was one of the performers in his home community where Juno Award-winning A Tribe Called Red gave a free show on Aug. 29.

“I just want to get out there and play for the world, for everyone to hear,” says Stevens.

Stevens says that he loves performing for his fans. He believes that the fans are what make the shows great and he’s always willing to perform for anyone who wants to hear him.
“What I love most about performing is the people, the fans, it’s all about them. I love to show people a good time with my talent, entertain them, make them laugh, sing, dance and even cry, it’s incredible what the power of a song can do for someone, l love to sing for anyone who is willing to listen,” says Stevens.

There are many other First Nations musicians who are becoming more known and this is no different for Stevens, he thinks it is amazing to see more and more First Nations musicians gaining popularity.

“I think it’s amazing and wonderful that other First Nations artists like myself are getting well known in the music scene, whatever genre they sing, it’s nice to see my people doing what they love,” says Stevens.

Stevens claims to just be a typical guy when he’s not performing. “I enjoy my downtime just to relax and kick back with some friends, but my guitars are never too far, in case inspiration strikes, I bring one wherever I go. I’m always playing music,” laughed Stevens.

Stevens’ next performance will be at the Crazy Horse Tavern in Chelmsford on September 11.