Saskatchewan Indigenous Music Awards Celebrate Talent Amid Loss

UPDATE: The third annual Saskatchewan Indigenous Music Awards took place Saturday night at the EA Rawlinson Centre in Prince Albert, celebrating outstanding Indigenous musicians while honoring those lost in recent months. The event, hosted by the Saskatchewan Indigenous Music Association (SIMA), was marked by emotional moments as tributes were paid to beloved artists, including the recently deceased Rene and Seth Constant of the band Constant Reminder and award-winning musician Lawrence Joseph.

During the ceremony, SIMA President Donny Parenteau expressed the profound sense of loss felt by the community, stating, “When you lose part of that, it’s like losing part of your family.” Two moments of silence were held to honor the Constant brothers, with Elder Harriet Oaks leading an opening prayer, followed by a tribute from Sheryl Kimbley, Joseph’s daughter and SIMA Vice President.

The night showcased not only the talent of Indigenous musicians but also the resilience of the community. Parenteau emphasized the importance of moving forward, saying, “They would not want us to stop. Keep moving forward, keep doing what we’re doing.”

The awards ceremony featured performances from prominent artists including Charlie Major and Andrea Menard, who opened and closed the night to enthusiastic applause. Other performers included Julianna Parenteau, Darryl Anderson, and Ali Fontaine, highlighting the diversity of Indigenous music genres from hip hop to gospel.

This year’s awards saw Terri Anne Strongarm shine, winning the Fan’s Choice Award, Emerging Artist of the Year, and Female Artist of the Year. Other notable winners included Carl Crane, who received the Willard Ahenakew Award, and JJ Lavallee, named Male Artist of the Year. The Song of the Year award went to Big Tones for their hit “Shine”.

As the ceremony concluded, Parenteau reflected on the future of the awards, hinting at potential expansion into new categories. “You never know what categories are going to be out there,” he noted, underscoring a commitment to continuous growth and recognition of Indigenous talent.

The Saskatchewan Indigenous Music Awards not only celebrate musical excellence but also serve as a poignant reminder of the community’s strength and unity in the face of loss. With plans already underway for next year’s event, the spirit of collaboration and creativity remains vibrant, ensuring that Indigenous music continues to thrive.

This year’s ceremony was not just about recognizing achievements; it was a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of those who have passed and a celebration of the enduring power of music in uniting people. As the community looks ahead, the message is clear: the show must go on, and the music will never stop.